The third accused in the high-profile ambulance procurement trial, Richard Jakpa, has described the Court of Appeal's ruling as a significant victory for democracy and the rule of law in Ghana.
In an interview with JoyNews’ Latif Iddrisu, Mr Jakpa expressed his excitement and relief following the court's decision, which he believes underscores the integrity of the judicial system.
Read also: Ambulance trial: I am confident I will come out victorious – Jakpa
"This ruling is a victory for all democracy-loving Ghanaians and those who hold sovereignty to the rule of law. It is a victory for all Ghanaians, not for me alone. It is also a victory for all those who were trained and saw that we needed integrity in the country and wanted us protected," Mr Jakpa stated.
His comment follows a 2:1 majority decision quashing the Ambulance trial involving the Minority Leader, Cassiel Ato Forson, and himself for allegedly causing financial loss to the State.
Cassiel Ato Forson and Richard Jakpa, who is a representative for Big Sea, were accused of causing a financial loss of €2.37 million to the State in a deal to purchase 200 ambulances for the country between 2014 and 2016.
The Court said the two have no case to answer, and therefore set aside an earlier decision of the High Court for the case to proceed, for which Richard Jakpa, the 3rd accused, has had to call a number of witnesses.
Mr Jakpa praised the Court of Appeal for its fair assessment of the evidence, stating, "I got my justice from the Appeal Court where there are men of integrity who looked at the evidence as it is and then they granted me my freedom."
Read also: Ambulance case: Court of Appeal acquits and discharges Ato Forson, Jakpa
Asked whether he has plans to leave the country, Mr. Jakpa said he has no intention of leaving. "I am going nowhere. If I am traveling, it is purely to go and engage my international business partners to see how I can get things back on track," he said, highlighting the adverse impact the prosecution has had on his business.
Despite the celebratory mood, Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame has criticised the ruling, describing it as "unfair" and detrimental to the rule of law. The Attorney General argued that the decision goes against established precedents concerning financial loss to the country and has announced plans to appeal the case.
Mr Jakpa, however, remains undeterred by the prospect of further legal challenges. He expressed readiness to face the Supreme Court if the Attorney General proceeds with the appeal.
"I am prepared for an appeal should Dame decide to go to the Supreme Court and appeal the case," Mr. Jakpa asserted.
Latest Stories
-
SpaceX capsule splashes down on Earth
7 mins -
It is not too late for EC to build trust – Ibn Chambas
3 hours -
“With all due respect, Mr. President”, make elections 2024 a befitting legacy – Chambas to Akufo-Addo
5 hours -
GJA President calls for support of Media Freedom at Northern Regional GJA Awards
7 hours -
Trailblazing ballerina Michaela DePrince dies aged 29
8 hours -
Cher drops bid for conservatorship over her son
9 hours -
Anis Haffar: The persistent terrorism of galamsey
9 hours -
Paa Grant Medals for Excellence Award: Justmax Travels CEO named ‘Most Outstanding Entrepreneur of the Year’
11 hours -
South Africa’s Deputy President Mashatile collapses on podium
12 hours -
Evans Mawunyo Tsikata: Why resist an audit if you are clean?
12 hours -
You are a nation-wrecker if you live in Ashanti and vote for NDC – NAPO
13 hours -
2024/2025 GPL: Medeama SC secure back-to-back victories with win over Legon Cities
14 hours -
Ekow Yamson offers 10 Agriculture Q&As on NDC 2024 Manifesto
14 hours -
Embrace AI to remain competitive – Mark Okraku-Mantey to creatives
15 hours -
You’ve failed the creative industry – Sadiq Abdullai tells NPP gov’t
15 hours