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Wrongful conviction: Ataa Ayi’s mechanic freed after serving 23 years in the cooler
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
News
Ghana Congratulates Namibia on 35th Independence Anniversary
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.
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Health Minister leads delegation Mimi Darko’s appointment as AMA Director General
Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister for Health and Member of Parliament has led a delegation to secure the appointment of Dr Delese Mimi Darko, Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Drugs Authority, as the Director General of the African Medicines Agency (AMA) during the ongoing 2nd Ordinary Session of the Conference of State Parties in Kigali, Rwanda.
This prestigious appointment, achieved through a competitive process, marks a proud and historic moment for Ghana and the entire continent.
It highlights Dr. Darko’s exceptional leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to enhancing public health and regulatory systems across Africa.
The Minister expressed his deep appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama for his strong support and leadership throughout this process.
Mr.Akandoh congratulated Dr. Mimi Darko and Team Ghana for their incredibly successful campaign.
The AMA was established by the African Union on November 5, 2021, with the primary objective of improving access to quality, safe, and effective medical products throughout the continent. Its creation aims to facilitate the regulation and oversight of essential medicines at a continental level while promoting collaboration among African countries and regions.
The Agency’s mission is to provide leadership in creating an enabling regulatory environment for the pharmaceutical sector in Africa, ensuring that the African population has access to essential medical products and technologies.
