Opuni-Agongo trial to recommence after new ruling
The Opuni-Agongo case, which started in 2017, has taken a new turn following a ruling on April 4, 2023, by Justice Kwasi Anokye Gyimah. The case involves the former CEO of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Dr. Stephen Opuni, and Seidu Agongo, CEO of Agricult Ghana Limited, who are both facing 27 counts of illegalities that led to the distribution of sub-standard fertiliser to cocoa farmers and caused a financial loss of GH¢271.3 million to the state.
Justice Gyimah, who took over the case from retired Justice Clemence Jackson Honyenuga, ruled that it would be unfair to adopt the previous proceedings, which were “saddled” with numerous allegations. He ordered a fresh start to the trial, or ‘De Novo’, stating that an accused person was required by law to have fairness, and the presumption of innocence should not be overlooked by the court.
The prosecution had moved a motion to adopt the previous proceedings, which was opposed by the defence lawyers, who prayed for a fresh start to the trial. The case was adjourned to April 25, 2023, for Case Management Conference, and the parties were ordered to file their witnesses on or before April 21, 2023.
The Opuni-Agongo case has attracted significant attention in Ghana’s political and business circles, as it involves allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement at COCOBOD. The case has also raised questions about the transparency and accountability of Ghana’s cocoa industry, which is a major source of revenue for the country.
The prosecution alleges that Opuni and Agongo engaged in fraudulent activities that caused a financial loss of over GH¢271 million to the state. The prosecution further alleges that Agongo used fraudulent means to sell sub-standard fertiliser to COCOBOD, which was then distributed to cocoa farmers. The prosecution also alleges that Opuni used his position as CEO of COCOBOD to facilitate Agongo’s activities by allowing the fertiliser to be distributed without testing and certification as required by law.
Opuni and Agongo have both pleaded not guilty to the charges and are on self-recognisance bail in the sum of GH¢300,000 each. The trial has been ongoing for several years, and the latest ruling by Justice Gyimah suggests that it may take even longer to reach a conclusion.
The Opuni-Agongo case is just one of many high-profile corruption cases in Ghana in recent years. The government has taken steps to tackle corruption, including the establishment of the Office of the Special Prosecutor in 2018. However, critics argue that more needs to be done to address corruption in Ghana, which is seen as a major obstacle to development and economic growth.
The outcome of the Opuni-Agongo case will be closely watched by many in Ghana, as it could have significant implications for the cocoa industry and the fight against corruption in the country. It remains to be seen how the trial will progress under Justice Gyimah, and whether a verdict will be reached anytime soon.
