Afoko trial: June deadline still holds – Judge

The presiding judge hearing the case involving Gregory Afoko, accused of murdering the former Upper East Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has reminded the prosecution that the June deadline to end the case still holds.

He said the prosecution must ensure to work within the time frame.

This was after the prosecution prayed the court for the case to be adjourned for him to be able to attend a continued legal education for lawyers at the Ghana Law School.

The prosecution, Mr Mathew Amponsah said his witnesses were all ready and available, but had to seek the permission of the court to be able to attend the programme.

He, however, assured the court that, they would try to work within the time frame and that the remaining state witnesses have very short testimonies to give.

“We would try and cover up as much as possible on the next adjourned date to make up for the time lost today.”

Counsel for Afoko, Mr Francis Gariba Apam said they were not opposed to the appeal, saying they had been informed earlier by the prosecution.

The prosecution was expected to present their next witness today.

The case has since been adjourned to May 29.

At the last sitting the eight prosecution witness gave his evidence in chief and subsequently responded to questions from the defence counsel, after which he was discharged.

The prosecution has so far called eight witnesses including Hajia Adams, Madam Issaka, Quinn, Taufic, Dominic, Awafo, Thomas and Benjamin. They intend to call seven more witnesses.

Afoko, a farmer, is alleged to have killed Mr Mahama on May 20, 2015, and he is being held on the charges of conspiracy to commit crime to wit murder and murder.

He has pleaded not guilty before the Court, which is also composed of a seven-member jury.

It was alleged that Afoko carried out the act with Alandgi Asabke, who is on the run.

Source: GNA