Appeals Court has acquitted and discharged Yaw Asante Ageykum, a wrongfully convicted mechanic jailed in 2002 for his alleged association with notorious armed robber Ataa Ayi.

In a judgment today (June 5, 2025), a three-member panel at the Court of Appeal, which had Justice Janapare A. Bartels-Kodwo, as its President, held that Agyekum, who was convicted 23 years ago, could not be linked to the many robberies carried out by Ataa Ayi.

The court was of the opinion that the prosecution failed to provide sufficient evidence to warrant conviction and sentence of Yaw Asante.

Against this backdrop, the court acquitted and discharged him after eight years of legal battle through his counsel, George Bernard Shaw.

Speaking to the media after he had his freedom, Yaw Asante said, he felt happy and said the court was fair.

Unfortunately, Yaw Asante had already served 23 years of the 35-year sentence handed him by the High Court which sentenced Ataa Ayi to 70 years and 20 years in separate cases of armed robberies.

The three-member panel were Justices Janapare A. Bartels-Kodwo, Aboagye Tandoh, and Stephen Oppong.

By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme

The High Commission of the Republic of Namibia in Accra hosted a celebration to mark the country’s 35th Independence Anniversary.

The event was attended by government officials, diplomats, traditional leaders, and members of the Namibian community residing in Ghana.

Ghana’s Government representative, Minister for the Interior, Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka delivered a heartfelt speech, congratulating Namibia on its remarkable journey to independence and commended its commitment to democratic principles, peace, and stability.

Mohammed-Mubarak highlighted the bond between Ghana and Namibia, forged in solidarity during Namibia’s struggle for self-determination.

He emphasized the need for unwavering solidarity among African nations and with people around the world seeking justice, peace, and dignity.

Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening partnerships in areas such as education, healthcare, trade, tourism, security, and energy.

The celebration served as a reminder of the importance of African unity, self-determination, and sustainable development.

The Minister and the outgoing High Commissioner of Namibia, H.E. Selma Ashipala-Musavyi toasted to the continued good health, wisdom, and visionary leadership of both countries’ presidents, the bond of friendship between Ghana and Namibia, and the realization of a united, peaceful, and prosperous Africa.

The celebration marked a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between Ghana and Namibia, with both countries poised to explore broader avenues of cooperation in strategic sectors.