Ambulance Trial: Obiri Boahen Questions the Logic Behind NDC Press Conference To Attack Godfred Dame

Lawyer Nana Obiri Boahen, a private legal practitioner, has criticized the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) for holding a press conference to attack the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, regarding Hon Ato Forson’s ambulance purchase trial.

The NDC led by its Communication Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, addressing the media after Thursday’s court session, alleged that Attorney General Godfred Dame is orchestrating a campaign to incarcerate Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson at any cost in the ongoing ambulance case.

Sammy Gyamfi made this revelation following the cross-examination of the third accused person, Richard Jakpa, during the continuation of the ambulance case.

He disclosed the purported efforts by the AG, including calls made to the third accused person at unusual hours, all aimed at obtaining damning testimony against the Minority Leader.

“We have repeatedly explained why we believe Hon Ato Forson is innocent and why this case is unnecessary. The minority leader has presented his case and concluded it. Currently, the third accused is being cross-examined by lawyers representing the minority leader, who is the first accused,” Gyamfi stated.

Speaking in an interview, Lawyer Nana Obiri Boahen accused the NDC of being desperate to seize political power, leading to their relentless attacks on the Attorney General.

He praised Godfred Dame, calling him one of the country’s finest minds and a hardworking Attorney General who has prevented many financial losses to the state.

According to the former deputy general secretary of the NPP, the funds involved in the ambulance purchase saga could have been used to build a dual carriageway from Accra to Winneba.

He expressed lamentation over what he perceives as an issue with the mindset of Africans.

Background

The Ato Forson ambulance purchase trial revolves around allegations of financial misconduct and causing financial loss to the state of Ghana in connection with the procurement of ambulances during Forson’s tenure as Deputy Minister of Finance. The case is formally titled “The Republic vs. Cassiel Ato Forson & Others” and was initiated by the Attorney General Godfred Dame.

Background of the Purchase:

In 2014, under the administration of then-President John Dramani Mahama, the Ministry of Health contracted to procure 200 ambulances to improve emergency medical services in Ghana.

Cassiel Ato Forson, as Deputy Minister of Finance, was involved in facilitating the financing of this procurement.

Issues with the Ambulances:

Upon delivery, the ambulances were found to be substandard and largely non-functional.

Allegations emerged that the procurement process was flawed and did not adhere to proper standards and procedures.

Legal Action:

In December 2021, the Attorney General charged Ato Forson and two other individuals, alleging that they caused a financial loss of €2.37 million to the state.

The charges include willfully causing financial loss to the state and intentionally misapplying public property.

Ato Forson’s Defense:

Forson has consistently denied any wrongdoing, claiming that he acted within his official duties and followed due process.

He argues that the Ministry of Health was responsible for ensuring the quality and standards of the ambulances, not the Ministry of Finance.

Trial Proceedings:

The trial has garnered significant media attention and public interest, with various testimonies and evidence being presented.

Key aspects of the trial include examining the procurement process, the roles and responsibilities of the individuals involved, and the financial implications for the state.

Broader Implications:

The case has sparked discussions on public procurement practices, accountability, and governance in Ghana.

It underscores the challenges faced by the country in managing public resources and combating corruption.