Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has urged Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo to establish a committee to reform Ghana’s bail system. Kpebu’s call comes after the Accra High Court refused to grant bail to Oliver Barker Vormawor, the leader of the Democracy Hub group, who is facing charges following the recent demonstration.
Martin Kpebu further stated that Vormawor, whose charge is a misdemeanor, would eventually be granted bail. “Oliver will get bail, it’s just a question of time. Nobody can convince me that we understand what personal liberties being priceless means. We don’t understand. These are misdemeanors, and misdemeanors are the smallest of crimes. Usually, you fine the person,” Kpebu explained.
The case gained attention when the Accra High Court refused to grant bail to Oliver Barker Vormawor at a recent hearing. Vormawor’s lead counsel, Dr. Justice Srem Sai, argued that his client was not a flight risk and had an identifiable place of residence. However, the judge expressed concerns about Vormawor’s commitment to attend future court hearings, particularly since he is already on trial for a treason felony charge.
Dr. Srem Sai countered, emphasizing that Vormawor had not absconded during his treason trial and would similarly appear for the misdemeanor charges.
Despite no opposition from the prosecution, as the Attorney-General’s officers were absent in court, the judge denied the bail application. The court instructed that Vormawor’s trial in the Circuit Court should begin within 72 hours. Should the Circuit Court fail to start the trial within this period, the judge indicated that Vormawor may be granted bail.
In contrast, five other individuals, including Felicity Nelson, were granted bail at GH₵20,000 each. Martin Kpebu call for a reform of the bail system echoes growing concerns within the legal community about the fairness and efficiency of the current process, particularly for those facing misdemeanor charges.
SOURCE: http://dew360.net
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