Treason Trial Adjourned For Lack Of Transcripts

Accra.(Greater Accra) 4 Nov. The trial of five persons charged with treason at a High Court in Accra, was today adjourned to tomorrow because the transcripts of the proceedings of October 30 were not ready. The court composed of a three-member panel chaired by Mr. Justice P.K. Owusu-Sekyere, is supposed to be furnished with transcripts of any previous sitting before the trial continues. Members of the bench and bar are supplied with copies for their perusal and acceptance by the court. Before the court adjourned, Mr. Nyamekye Baah, counsel for Alex Offei, the first accused, complained of misreporting by the media of proceedings of the court. Counsel said press reports which do not reflect true proceedings at the court tend to prejudice the case against the accused persons. Mr. Baah mentioned in particular "The Graphic" reports and headlines given to the trial and pictures of the accused persons published in its pages with wrong identification. The bench upheld counsel's sentiments and cautioned members of the press who cover the trial to be cautious of what they write on the proceedings and advised them not to hesitate to contact the court whenever they are in doubt. The other accused persons are Kwame Ofori Appiah, cleaner, Sylvester Addai Dwomoh, teacher, John Owusu Boakye, student and Emmanuel Osei Kofi, a driver. They have pleaded not guilty and are in custody.