The High Court in Accra is expected to take the plea of Professor Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi today, Monday, May 26, in the ongoing trial concerning the controversial Sky Train project.
This follows two previous instances where the former Board Chairman of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF) failed to appear in court due to reported health emergencies.
Professor Ameyaw-Akumfi, alongside Solomon Asamoah, the former Chief Executive Officer of GIIF, faces multiple charges, including willfully causing financial loss to the state. The case revolves around the disbursement of $2 million for the procurement of an urban sky train system, a project that never materialized.
While Mr. Asamoah has already entered a plea, proceedings involving Professor Ameyaw-Akumfi have been delayed due to his absence in court on two prior occasions. His legal team has cited medical emergencies as the reason for his nonappearance.
The Attorney General’s Office formally charged both individuals earlier this month, alleging that the $2 million payment made in February 2019 to Africa Investor Holdings Limited was unauthorized and lacked proper board approval. The prosecution argues that the funds were disbursed without due diligence, violating governance protocols within GIIF
Courtroom expectations are high as state prosecutors, defense lawyers, and the presiding judge prepare for today’s proceedings. The hearing is expected to determine whether Professor Ameyaw-Akumfi will finally respond to the charges against him.
This trial forms part of a broader government crackdown on financial malfeasance, with authorities keen on ensuring accountability in public sector investments
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