The explosive Wontumi trial evidence clash halted proceedings today. Defence lawyers accused the state of hiding vital documents, forcing a tense adjournment. The heated Wontumi trial evidence clash dominated proceedings at the Accra High Court today. Immediately, defence lawyers accused the prosecution of hiding crucial files. Specifically, the legal team for Chairman Wontumi demanded the release of suppressed materials. Consequently, the courtroom atmosphere grew tense during the case management conference. Right now, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako faces serious illegal mining charges. Simultaneously, his company Akonta Mining stands trial for unapproved operations. However, the defence claims the state is withholding documents essential for their exoneration.
Therefore, lead counsel Andy Appiah-Kubi halted the trial’s momentum. Boldly, he notified the court of a pending formal application. Explicitly, the defence seeks an order compelling full disclosure from the state. In contrast, the prosecution insisted they had submitted every relevant document. Previously, they filed their disclosures on October 31 and November 11. Nevertheless, Appiah-Kubi rejected this claim as insufficient for a fair trial. According to him, the prosecution possesses supplementary documents beneficial to the accused. Thus, the Wontumi trial evidence clash centers on transparency and fair play.
Meanwhile, the presiding judge issued strict orders regarding the next steps. Promptly, the court directed the defence to file their motion immediately. In addition, the accused must submit names of all intended witnesses. Crucially, this requirement applies if the state establishes a prima facie case. Furthermore, the defence argued that even non-evidence documents could assist their strategy. As a result, the judge granted time for the filing of the motion. Consequently, the court adjourned the case until December 8, 2025. Ultimately, the hearing will determine the outcome of this disclosure battle.
Clearly, this delay raises the stakes for the ruling New Patriotic Party official. Moreover, the allegations involve the controversial Samreboi forest concession. Currently, public interest in the environmental impact remains incredibly high. Undoubtedly, the defence is fighting aggressively to uncover every hidden detail. Finally, the upcoming ruling will decide the trajectory of this high-profile prosecution.
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