The Former Deputy Attorney General, Alfred Tuah-Yeboah has argued that the prison sentence imposed on former MASLOC Chief Executive Sedinam Tamakloe Attionu should begin from the day she was returned to Ghana and placed under lawful restrictions. He explained that the interpretation is consistent with the spirit of Ghana’s criminal procedure laws and prevents convicted persons from benefiting from prolonged absence.
He suggested that the circumstances surrounding the case require a practical reading of the law. The legal practitioner indicated that a strict interpretation could produce outcomes that undermine justice.
Tuah-Yeboah referred to provisions of the Criminal Procedure and Other Offences Act to support his position. He stated that while some may conclude that a sentence begins on the day judgment is delivered, the law assumes that a convicted person is already under the authority of the court at the time of conviction.
He explained that the situation differs when a person is convicted after absconding during legal proceedings. Consequently, he contended that restrictions imposed following arrest should mark the commencement of the sentence.
“The only conclusion is that Madam Sedinam Tamakloe can start her sentence from today. If we were to go by what appears on the face of it, it would lead to an absurdity.”
Alfred Tuah-Yeboah
The former Deputy Attorney General noted that allowing a convict to evade punishment through years of absence would weaken public confidence in the administration of justice. He stressed that the law must be interpreted in a manner that upholds accountability and preserves the integrity of judicial decisions.
Meanwhile, Tuah-Yeboah expressed confidence in Attorney General Dr Dominic Ayine as discussions continue over international legal cooperation. He said the Attorney General possesses the expertise required to engage counterparts in the United States on extradition matters.
The former Deputy Attorney General also encouraged reliance on technical experts within the Ministry of Justice during any negotiations. He added that successful extradition efforts depend not only on diplomatic engagement but also on the strength of domestic legal processes.
Furthermore, he cautioned that legal obstacles within Ghana’s judicial system could affect international requests. He explained that any unresolved questions surrounding prosecutorial authority may influence how foreign jurisdictions assess extradition applications.
He specifically referenced issues linked to proceedings initiated by the Office of the Special Prosecutor involving Agyapa-related matters. He argued that if a court ultimately determines that certain prosecutorial actions lacked legal authority, subsequent processes connected to those actions could face significant challenges.
Legal Hurdles And Bail Questions Remain Under Spotlight
The former Deputy Attorney General stated that Sedinam Tamakloe Attionu retains constitutional rights to challenge her conviction despite her return to Ghana. He however indicated that any legal effort to overturn the judgment is likely to face significant obstacles.
Tuah-Yeboah explained that an appeal remains available under Ghanaian law. He noted that legal advisers would determine the most appropriate procedure should the former MASLOC Chief Executive decide to pursue that option.
The legal practitioner also addressed public discussion surrounding the possibility of bail. He suggested that previous events in the case could weigh heavily against any future application before the courts.
“I do not think the courts will grant her bail because when she was being tried, she was granted bail and absconded. That is my opinion because of her antecedent.”
Alfred Tuah-Yeboah
Tuah-Yeboah recalled that the prosecution presented substantial evidence during the trial. Having participated in the proceedings, he argued that the case advanced by the state was comprehensive and carefully prepared.
He further commended the prosecuting team for its work throughout the matter. The former Deputy Attorney General stated that the accused was afforded opportunities to participate in the proceedings before the case was concluded.
In addition, he praised the High Court judge who presided over the trial and has since moved to the Court of Appeal. He described the judgment as detailed and thoroughly reasoned.
Despite expressing confidence in the conviction, Attua-Yeboah acknowledged that the right to appeal remains protected under the Constitution. He said legal developments arising from the case would continue to attract close public attention.
The former Deputy Attorney General also voiced concerns about possible decisions that could emerge if new applications are filed. He referred to previous criminal cases that were discontinued after changes in government and indicated that such precedents had informed his concerns.
“There were cases that had reached advanced stages before the state withdrew them. That history means some of us will monitor this matter carefully.”
Alfred Tuah-Yeboah
Tuah-Yeboah observed that public confidence in the justice system depends on consistency and transparency. He warned that decisions perceived as lenient could create negative impressions about accountability.
He nevertheless expressed trust in the judiciary to handle the matter fairly and independently. The former Deputy Attorney General said the courts have a responsibility to ensure that legal processes reinforce confidence in the rule of law.
According to him, judicial caution will be essential as the case progresses through any future legal challenges. He added that the outcome could influence public perceptions of how Ghana deals with convicted persons who return after absconding from justice.
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