Kasoa murder trial: Court adjourns over absence of juror

The Accra High Court hearing the case of two teenagers standing trial for allegedly killing a 10-year-old at Kasoa has adjourned to March 13, 2023, following the absence of a member of the jury.

The juror in question, a worker with the Department of Social Welfare, is said to have notified the foreman (leader of the seven-member jury) of his inability to continue to take part in the hearings.

However, that did not sit well with the trial judge. 

Justice Lydia Osei Marfo noted that since there was no evidence of a letter before the court on the juror’s intent to excuse himself from the case, he will be assumed absent for only Thursday’s hearing.

She further warned a bench warrant could be issued for his arrest if he fails to appear at the next hearing of the case. 

“We do not play games here, if I give you time to appear, it means I have put everything on hold. Do you understand the implications of this? You have disrespected the Court. Tell him to come else I will issue a bench warrant for his arrest.

“He should know he is duty-bound to be part of this trial. This is a constitutional duty and he cannot afford to stay in his office and issue orders in this matter," she warned. 

On March 13, the prosecution will call its first witness to testify in the trial.

Background

Charged with conspiracy and murder, the two boys (a now 16-year-old minor and a 19-year-old young teenager) are being tried for killing 10-year-old Ishmael Mensah Abdallah in April 2021.

They are represented by Mr Samuel Atuah and Mr Martin Kpebu.