Gyakye Quayson acquitted, discharged of forgery and perjury charges

After nearly three years of legal proceedings, the Criminal Division of the Accra High Court, presided over by Justice Mary Ekue Yanzuh, has acquitted and discharged Assin North Member of Parliament Gyakye Quayson, of all charges, including perjury.

Despite being offered a discontinuation of the case by the newly appointed Attorney General in 2022, Quayson chose to proceed with the trial.

The court ultimately ruled in his favor, citing the prosecution's inability to present sufficient evidence to support their allegations.

Quayson had faced multiple charges, including deception of a public officer, passport and document forgery, knowingly providing false information, and perjury. 

These charges stemmed from his initial election in 2020, during which it was alleged that he had not properly renounced his dual citizenship as required by the Ghanaian Constitution. The Supreme Court had previously nullified his election, leading to his removal from Parliament in 2023. However, he successfully re-contested and reclaimed the Assin North seat.

Had the prosecution substantiated its claims, the MP would have been required to open his defense. However, Justice Yanzuh ruled that the evidence presented did not meet the legal threshold for the case to proceed.

Speaking to the press after the victory, Mr. Quayson expressed joy and described the outcome as a triumph for justice and the people of his constituency.

He also commended Justice Yanzuh for her impartial handling of the case.

Quayson maintained that the charges against him were politically driven and based on manipulated evidence. Yet, he remained resolute and confident throughout the process.