Deposed MP James Quayson Gets Campaign Window As Court Adjourns Proceedings

The deposed Assin North MP, James Gyakye Quayson, will have the opportunity to campaign for the upcoming Assin North by-election scheduled for Tuesday, June 27.

It will be recalled that the trial judge, Justice Mary Maame Ekue Yanzuh, ruled that Mr Quayson’s criminal trial would proceed without delay, thus on a day-to-day basis.

This development did not sit well with the deposed MP as he hoped to campaign vigorously in the constituency to increase his chances of winning.

Therefore, his team filed a review application, explaining that their client’s participation in the by-election was a national duty as he sought to represent the people in parliament.

They requested that the trial be postponed to ensure a fair campaign for Quayson.

However, the Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, opposed the request, stating that Quayson had not been assigned any national duty.

The Attorney-General emphasized the seriousness of the charges against Quayson, highlighting that a conviction could lead to imprisonment.

Although the Accra High Court did not grant his motion asking it to review the daily court proceedings ruling, the next adjourned date works in his favour.

The court has adjourned proceedings to June 29, 2023, when the Assin North election scheduled for June 27 would have ended.

The adjournment was because of the unavailability of the specific courtroom on Mondays.

After June 29, 2023, the criminal proceedings will be heard daily starting July 4, 2023.

Dismissing the motion, the court maintained that its decision to continue the case on June 20, 21, and 23 daily was within the law.

“Adjournments are at the discretion of the court and not the convenience of parties. The order of this court was clearly in line with the law.

“Nowhere was it demonstrated that the order was contrary to law.

“His rights have not been violated by the court for refusing not to give him time to campaign.

“Mere refusal of the court does not constitute a denial of the right to a fair trial,” the judge stated.