The Criminal and Economic Court Division of the Accra High Court trying ten accused persons for their involvement in an alleged coup plot has served notice of strict adherence to Covid-19 protocols in subsequent proceedings.
The President of the panel, Justice Afia Serwah Asare Botwe, said the rise in Covid-19 cases requires that the court revisits the social distancing protocols to avert any unpleasant situations.
In court on Wednesday, July 7, Justice Afia Serwah Asare Botwe said, from Monday, July 12, only parties to the suit, would be allowed to participate in proceedings. She explained that, “Maybe the security officers and lawyers from the security agencies will be allowed to sit in.”
She urged the prosecution to cut down on the number of security personnel they bring to court if necessary. Explaining the court’s decision, the presiding judge said, it is easier for the virus to spread when people are in close proximity, and in an enclosed environment for that reason, the Court would have to resort to restricting the number of court visits.
Meanwhile, the accused persons, Dr. Mac Palm, the man accused of orchestrating the alleged plot, together with Donya Kafui, Bright Alan Debrah Ofosu, WOII Esther Saan, Johannes Zikpi, Corporal Seidu Abubakar, Lance Corporal Ali Solomon and Corporal Sylvester Akanpewon have all denied charges of High Treason and Conspiracy to Commit High Treason.
Col Kojo Gameli and Assistant Commissioner of Police, Dr. Benjamin Agordzo who have also been charged with abetment, have also pleaded not guilty.
By: Barbara Kumah.
