His Lordship George Krofa Addae of the Koforidua High Court -2 has recused himself from the Fanteakwa North Parliamentary election case, citing personal connections and friendships with key individuals involved.
The judge revealed that he is a native of Begoro, the district capital of Fanteakwa North, and that his wife and family are from the town.
He acknowledged his friendships with executives of both the NPP and NDC, adding that they sometimes visit him.
Given these personal ties, he deemed it inappropriate to preside over three cases which involves an application to set aside a writ of summons and certiorari, a substantive injunction against Kwame Appiah Kodua, the NPP MP-elect, and a contempt application.
Justice Addae has referred the matter to the Chief Justice for reassignment.
He has adjourned proceedings indefinitely.
Kwame Appiah Kodua’s victory was reaffirmed after a re-declaration by the Electoral Commission at its Tesano office, overturning an earlier declaration by the Returning Officer in favour of the NDC candidate, Mr. Haruna Appau Wiredu.
Lawyers Isaac Minta Larbi Esq. and Benard Bediako Esq. had filed an injunction to prevent the Electoral Commission from gazetting and transmitting Kwame Appiah Kodua’s name to Parliament.
A similar injunction was served on the Clerk of Parliament, prohibiting Mr. Kodua’s swearing-in.
According to Lawyer Isaac Minta Larbi, the judge’s recusal means the injunction barring Kwame Appiah Kodua’s swearing-in remains in effect.
This development delays any resolution of the legal dispute and maintains the current restrictions on the MP-elect’s participation in Parliament.
The case now awaits further direction from the Chief Justice.
Source: Starrfmonline.com