Martin Kpebu's comments on Chairman Wontumi's bail prospects follow an announcement by Wontumi's lead counsel, Samuel Atta Akyea, that the legal team intends to appeal the 20-year prison sentence imposed by the High Court after Chairman Wontumi was convicted in connection with illegal mining activities linked to Akonta Mining Limited.
Wontumi's Bail Application May Face Delay
Martin Kpebu, a private legal practitioner, says Chairman Wontumi may have to wait until October before any application for bail pending appeal is heard because of the impending legal vacation. According to him, the timing of the courts' annual vacation could delay the hearing of the application.
Limited Prospects for Bail at the High Court
Mr Kpebu explained that while some High Court judges remain on duty during the vacation to hear urgent matters, including bail and injunction applications, Wontumi's prospects of obtaining bail at the High Court would be limited. He attributed the likely delay to the judicial calendar.
Court of Appeal May Provide a Viable Avenue
Mr Kpebu suggested that the Court of Appeal may provide a more viable avenue for seeking bail pending appeal. He called for reforms to allow some Court of Appeal judges to sit during the legal vacation to hear urgent applications.
Urgent Matters to Be Determined Without Delay
Speaking on Citi FM on Saturday, Mr Kpebu said Wontumi's chances of securing bail at the High Court were "very slim, very, very slim." He urged the judiciary to review its vacation arrangements to ensure urgent matters are determined without unnecessary delays.
The comments come as Chairman Wontumi's legal team prepares to appeal the 20-year prison sentence. With the High Court's vacation schedule looming, it remains to be seen whether Wontumi's prospects of securing bail will be further delayed.
Source: Joy Online
