Accused fired lawyer after court ordered him to begin defence

Businessman Richard Dzakpa, who is currently on trial alongside former Deputy Minister for Finance Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, recently made the decision to dismiss his lawyer, Thomas Aubynn. Aubynn had been representing Dzakpa in court until this decision was announced. Dzakpa confirmed his decision to the High Court in Accra, where the trial is taking place. Following this confirmation, the court discharged Aubynn from the case, and directed Dzakpa to take the witness box and begin his defense.

This development has brought a twist to the ongoing trial, which has attracted significant attention due to the high-profile nature of the individuals involved. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the former Deputy Minister for Finance, is also facing charges alongside Dzakpa. The case is being heard by Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, a Justice of the Court of Appeal who is sitting as an additional High Court judge. The trial has been closely followed by the media, with EIB Network’s Legal Affairs Correspondent, Murtala Inusah, providing regular updates on the proceedings.

The reasons behind Dzakpa’s decision to fire his lawyer have not been publicly disclosed, leaving many speculating about the implications for his defense strategy. This unexpected development has raised questions about the potential impact on Dzakpa’s case and how it could affect the overall outcome of the trial. As Dzakpa prepares to take the witness stand and present his defense, the legal proceedings are likely to become even more intense and closely scrutinized by observers and the public.

The dismissal of Dzakpa’s lawyer could signal a significant shift in the dynamics of the trial, as the businessman prepares to present his side of the story in court. With the charges against him and Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson still pending, the outcome of the trial remains uncertain. The decision to part ways with his legal representation adds a new layer of complexity to an already complex and high-stakes legal battle, leaving many wondering what the future holds for Dzakpa and his co-accused.

As the trial continues to unfold, all eyes will be on Richard Dzakpa as he navigates the challenges of representing himself in court. The legal proceedings are expected to proceed with heightened scrutiny and attention from the public and the media. With the dismissal of his lawyer adding a new twist to the case, the stakes are higher than ever for Dzakpa and Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson as they face the legal consequences of the allegations against them. The coming days and weeks are likely to be critical in determining the outcome of this high-profile trial.