Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi rushed to hospital, misses sky train trial hearing

Professor Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi, former Board Chair of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF), missed his second court appearance. He cited ill health as the reason.

Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi is on trial with former CEO Solomon Asamoah. They face charges of willfully causing financial loss to the state.

The two are accused of authorizing a $2 million transfer in public funds. This was for the Sky Train project, but no work justified the payment.

On Tuesday, May 20, Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi’s lawyer, Duke Aaron Sasu, informed the court that he had been rushed to the hospital that morning.

This absence follows a similar situation on May 13 when he also missed court due to medical reasons.

Justice Comfort Tasiame expressed concern about this pattern of absences during scheduled hearings. However, Mr. Sasu assured the court that his client would be available for arraignment on Friday.

Meanwhile, Mr. Asamoah remains in custody after failing to meet bail conditions. He pleaded not guilty at the last sitting.

His bail was set at GH¢15 million with two sureties who must provide landed property in Accra.

Deputy Attorney General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai acknowledged concerns about Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi’s absence. He mentioned that the prosecution may reconsider its approach at the next hearing.

The case has been adjourned to Monday, May 26, at 10:00 a.m.