Accra: Lead counsel Samuel Atta Akyea, representing former National Signals Bureau Director-General Kwabena Adu-Boahene and two others, has expressed strong objections to the continuation of their criminal case hearings during the legal vacation. He described the decision as unprecedented and discriminatory in a letter addressed to Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie.
According to Ghana Web, Atta Akyea, who is the head of Chambers at Zoe, Akyea and Co., urged the Judicial Service to withdraw the directive that mandates the continuation of hearings during the legal vacation. He argued that this directive is unfair, as it requires them to work during the break while other lawyers handling criminal and civil cases are on vacation.
The letter further revealed that Justice Francis Apangabuno Achibonga, acting as an additional High Court judge, scheduled the case for hearings on August 11, 12, and 13, 2026, despite the ongoing legal vacation. Atta Akyea contended that such a decision results in unequal treatment, as many other criminal and civil cases have been postponed to October and November, allowing judges and lawyers to observe the vacation.
Atta Akyea claimed that the directive could expose the judiciary to allegations of selective justice, as it appears to fast-track certain cases while others are allowed to follow the usual legal course. He expressed concerns that this creates an impression of dual criminal justice systems in the country, undermining public confidence.
In his appeal to the Chief Justice, Atta Akyea requested the withdrawal of the directive, suggesting that the case be adjourned to the regular court term to align with the treatment of other pending cases. He emphasized the need for consistency and equity in the judicial process, highlighting the judiciary's role as a cornerstone of constitutional democracy.