Quayson v Republic: Application for stay of proceedings moved to July 4

The criminal prosecution of James Gyakye Quayson, the recently elected Member of Parliament for Assin North, has been postponed until July 4 by the High Court in Accra.

Justice Mary Ekue Yanzuh, the trial judge, stated that the adjournment was necessary since the court had not yet received all of the application paperwork.

The High Court’s decision to order that Gyakye Quayson’s criminal trial be heard every day is being challenged, according to Mr. Quayson’s lawyers, and they have asked for a stay of the High Court’s proceedings in order for the Court of Appeal to review the decision.

Speaking to the press after the court session, a member of Gyakye Quayson’s legal team, Sammy Gyamfi, said the defence team needs ample time to cross-examine the first witness and resolve other matters before the case is formally commenced.

Sammy Gyamfi stated that It is totally unacceptable for Her Ladyship to say that cross-examination should be done daily and should be limited to certain limited time periods, adding that that will offer their clients a fair hearing.

He furthered that his team is trying to prevent a “kangaroo” or hurried trial, for which reason they have filed this appeal contesting the trial judge’s decision and, pending the outcome of this matter, have requested a stay of proceedings until July 4.

He expressed hope that her ladyship would do the right thing and respect the outcome of the appeal.