Judge expresses worry over delay of Afoko’s suit

The Human Rights High Court, hearing the suit filed by Paul Afoko, suspended New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman, challenging his suspension by the party, says undue delay of the trial could be detrimental to his rights.

The Presiding judge, Justice Anthony Yeboah, cautioning both parties in the case and said the suit was about the human rights of an individual and therefore should not be unduly delayed.

He said, both parties should be mindful that Mr Afoko has been suspended by the party due to various claims and the fact that he was duly elected to the position.

He said it would get to a point where everyone would endorse his suspension without trial, if the case is further delayed, adding, that it is only fair for the case to be dealt with expeditiously in the interest of both parties.

Justice Yeboah asked both parties in the case to ensure that all the necessary documents are  filed by the close of work on Tuesday.

He adjourned the matter to April 13, for the commencement of pre-trial.

Mr Afoko is challenging his indefinite suspension from the party, arguing it is illegal. The NPP’s National Executive Committee suspended him in October 2015 for “misconduct.”

According to him, the action and processes leading to his suspension by some elements of the party were unconstitutional and a breach of natural justice.

The decision was adopted by the party’s National Council, which is the second highest decision making body of the party after congress but he maintained the party erred in the decision.

Source: GNA