Accra: The Herald has obtained documents revealing that the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) disbursed over GHS1.44 million for forensic audit services during Dr. Stephen Amoah's tenure as MASLOC Chief Executive Officer. The audit was initiated to scrutinize his predecessor, Christine Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu, and former Chief Operating Officer, Daniel Axim.
According to Ghana Web, both Tamakloe-Attionu and Axim were convicted by Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, sentenced to 10 and 5 years imprisonment, respectively, but have since been released by the Supreme Court and the Appeals Court. While Axim was granted bail by the Supreme Court pending an appeal, Tamakloe-Attionu's release from Nsawam Maximum Security Prison was obstructed by the current Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, despite the quashing of her conviction by the Court of Appeal.
The documents indicate that Baffour Awuah and Associates, the firm engaged by Dr. Amoah, who is now the Member of Parliament for Nhyiaeso Constituency, received GHS1,441,068.31 for audit services rendered between September 2017 and March 2018. Payments were supported by VAT invoices and receipts, made during several months in 2017 and 2018.
The Court of Appeal's recent decision to overturn Mrs. Tamakloe-Attionu's conviction is linked to the prosecution's failure, led by former Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame, to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt. There are also questions about the disposal of vehicles involved in the criminal charges against the former MASLOC executives, allegedly sold on Dr. Amoah's instructions post his appointment by the Akufo-Addo administration.
The forensic audit was pivotal to the case against Tamakloe-Attionu and Axim during the High Court trial. Mr. Baffour Awuah, the principal prosecution witness, testified on his firm's findings despite appearing unwell and requiring breaks during cross-examination. However, the Court of Appeal's comprehensive judgment cast significant doubt on the evidence, leading to Tamakloe-Attionu's acquittal and discharge by a three-member panel.
The appellate court criticized aspects of the prosecution under Godfred Yeboah Dame and highlighted the trial court's failure to uphold the constitutional presumption of innocence. Earlier, the Supreme Court granted bail to Daniel Axim, pending his appeal, under specific conditions including a GHS500,000 bond and regular reporting to the Registrar.
Tamakloe-Attionu's conviction occurred in absentia after she traveled for medical treatment and failed to return to Ghana, resulting in her extradition from the United States. Despite her acquittal by the Court of Appeal, Dr. Ayine has directed a stay of execution pending a Supreme Court appeal to maintain the status quo.
Addressing media, Dr. Ayine justified the appeal, emphasizing professional over political motivations, and acknowledged his personal connection to Tamakloe-Attionu, affirming the Government's commitment to accountability. The Attorney-General plans to scrutinize the appellate judgment before lodging a detailed appeal to the Supreme Court.