Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the Ambulance trial alongside Minority leader Ato Forson, expressed satisfaction and vindication following the Court of Appeal’s recent ruling.
Addressing journalists on Tuesday, July 30, Jakpa emphasized that the ruling had exposed the unfounded allegations against him.
“My enemies and detractors have been put to shame. I have been vindicated, and the allegations made against me to tarnish my integrity due to the Attorney General’s conduct have failed,” Jakpa stated confidently.
The Court of Appeal’s decision overturned the earlier ruling of the Financial and Economic Court, which had directed Ato Forson and Jakpa to open their defence in the case involving alleged financial mismanagement in purchasing ambulances worth 2.37 million Euros.
Jakpa and Seth Anemana, a former Chief Director of the Ministry of Health, faced charges alongside Ato Forson.
The Appeal Court concluded that the prosecution failed to present sufficient evidence to support the case against them, highlighting errors in the trial judge’s decision and dismissing the need for the accused to present a defence.
In its verdict, the Court of Appeal stressed that any financial losses incurred were due to the Ministry of Health’s oversight, absolving the accused of wrongdoing and acquitting them from all charges.
Jakpa’s remarks underscore the court’s decision’s emotional and legal significance, which has broader implications for judicial integrity and fair trial procedures in Ghana’s legal system.
