By: Beatrice Oppon
An application filed by Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin North James Gyakye Quayson asking the Supreme Court to quash a decision of the Accra High Court trying him has been dismissed.
Mr Quayson was seeking to halt his trial over claims that the trial Court erred when it refused a request by the Defence to order the prosecution to provide some undisclosed documents.
It was the case of Lawyer for the MP Justin Teriwajah that the High Court Judge, Justice Mary Yanzuh erred when she considered a letter from the Attorney General’s Office which he claimed was not verified on oath.
Mr Quayson’s Lawyers filed an application for further disclosures at the High Court which the Attorney General responded to with a letter which he purported was not sworn by an affidavit. Mr Teriwajah said the High Court Judge relying on the letter presented by the State meant it used evidence not properly presented to it.
Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame however disagreed. He submitted that, the Application was improper before the Supreme Court contending that it violated the rules of Court.
Mr Dame said the trial Court committed no judicial error on the face of the record as alleged by Mr Teriwajah. The Supreme Court held that there was no merit in the application and is satisfied that Mr Quayson was heard by the High Court. The Court also stated that the High Court acted within its jurisdiction and accordingly dismissed the application.
Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo raised concern over the failure of Mr Quayson to show up in Court after filing applications at the Apex Court.
She stated that the Assin North MP is not treating the Court well by his conduct.
The Court also cautioned Mr Teriwajah for deposing to affidavits on behalf of his client. The Court noted that the practice is improper and demeaning to the legal profession.
