The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has released a 16-minute audio recording alleging that Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame coached key witness Richard Jakpa to implicate Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson in a high-profile legal case.
The case involves charges against Dr. Forson for causing financial loss to the state in relation to the procurement of ambulances. The release of this tape has stirred significant controversy and raised questions about the integrity of the legal proceedings.
Here are 10 key points from the leaked tape:
1. Accusations of Manipulation: The NDC accused Attorney General Godfred Dame of coaching Richard Jakpa to skew evidence against Minority Leader Cassiel Ato Forson.
2. Ambulance Purchase Contract Details: The conversation began with discussions on the ambulance contracts, Letters of Credit (LC), and financial procedures. Jakpa explained that the contract required payment through irrevocable LCs for every tranche of 50 ambulances.
3. LCs as Financial Security: Jakpa elaborated that LCs act as financial security for suppliers, becoming payable when shipping documents are presented, not upon delivery in Ghana.
4. Ethical Dilemma: Jakpa expressed ethical concerns, stating he couldn’t dishonestly alter his testimony to implicate Dr. Ato Forson, whom he believes to be innocent.
5. Concerns About Recording: Dame expressed fears about the conversation being recorded, which Jakpa attempted to allay.
6. Meetings with Justice Kulendi: Jakpa mentioned multiple meetings with Dame at Supreme Court Justice Yonny Kulendi’s home to discuss the case.
7. Accusations Against Anemana: Jakpa accused Anemana of authorizing payments despite issues raised by Ghana International Bank, implicating him in the irregularities.
8. Former Finance Minister’s Involvement: Discussions touched on a letter from former Finance Minister Seth Terkper regarding the suspension of production, which was overridden by an A-G’s legal opinion.
9. Health Ministry’s Role: Jakpa criticized the Health Ministry’s decision to refuse pre-shipment inspection under Sherry Ayittey’s tenure.
10. Medical Excuse Proposal: Dame suggested Jakpa use a medical excuse to delay court proceedings, which Jakpa acknowledged but expressed concerns about potential repercussions.
The release of this tape has intensified public debate over the legal proceedings and raised serious concerns about potential manipulation within the justice system.