Former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has welcomed the Court of Appeal’s decision to acquit and discharge Dr Cassiel Ato Forson and co-accused Richard Jakpa in the controversial ambulance procurement case.
This decision has brought a sense of relief to Dr. Ato Forson and his co-accused, who have been under the cloud of these allegations.
Mr. Mahama expressed satisfaction with the ruling, stating that it affirms Dr. Ato Forson’s innocence and underscores the presence of justice in Ghana.
“I always maintained Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s innocence in this matter. This decision shows that he has been vindicated. We believe this prosecution should never have occurred,” Mr. Mahama commented in an exclusive interview with TV3’s Komla Klutse.
The Court of Appeal’s decision, which overturned the High Court’s earlier directive for Dr Ato Forson to open his defence, cited insufficient evidence and speculative claims by the prosecution.
The appellate court emphasized that the allegations of financial loss should be attributed to the Ministry of Health’s oversight rather than the accused individuals.
The case, involving allegations of causing a financial loss of 2.37 million Euros in purchasing non-functional ambulances, has been a subject of legal contention since March 2023.
The High Court initially ruled that the accused should present their defence following Dr Ato Forson’s legal team’s submission that there was no case.
Mr Mahama further highlighted the importance of maintaining judicial integrity and ensuring fairness in legal proceedings. He commended the Court of Appeal’s pivotal role in upholding justice, a sentiment that should reassure the public of the court’s commitment to fairness.
