Ofosu Ampofo leaked tape: Former NDC Chairman fails to show up in court to open defence

Former National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, Samuel Ofosu Ampofo did not turn up in court to open his defence again.

Ofosu Ampofo who has been absent since November last year returned to the country last week after undergoing a minor surgery in his leg.

When the case was called on Thursday, May 30, his lawyers led by Tony Lithur notified the court that his client had developed a swelling on his leg and hence would not be able to make it.

The former NDC National Chairman is standing trial together with Anthony Kwaku Boahen, a former Deputy Communications Officer of the NDC for allegedly conspiring to cause harm to the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission and the Chairman of the Peace Council.

They have both pleaded not guilty to assault on a public officer and are on bail.

“You gave us today to open our defence. Unfortunately, the first accused is back but it appears the long-haul flight has aggravated his leg a bit.

“Yesterday, when I asked him to come for preparation he couldn’t come, he said he was having difficulty to walk. That is why he is unable to come. I have spoken to him and his doctors say because it is just a swell within a week or two he could walk with a stick and come to court,” Tony Lithur noted to the judge.

He prayed the court for a two-week adjournment by which time Mr Ofosu Ampofo would be fit enough to walk.

Responding to the development, Director of Public Prosecution, Yvonne Atakora Obuobisa confirmed that the defense had submitted a doctor’s report which they did not oppose.

“This morning, Mr. Lithur showed me the doctor’s report indicating that the first accused person would not be able to walk. I’m agreeable, having seen the doctor’s report, if he could be given the two weeks adjournment as he is praying the court,” DPP indicated.

Presiding judge, Justice Samuel Asiedu then adjourned the case to June 20 for the first accused, Ofosu Ampofo to open his defence.

Background

Samuel Ofosu Ampofo and Anthony Kwaku Boahen were captured in an audio recording during a meeting on February 3, 2019, where they were planning criminal activities aimed at the chairperson of the Electoral Commission and the chairman of the National Peace Council, among others.

The meeting took place after the Ayawaso West-Wuogon by-election on January 31, 2019, which became violent following a clash between National Security operatives and supporters of the National Democratic Congress, who were suspected to be vigilantes.