'Case may not continue without counsel' - Samson Lardy Anyenini on Adu-Boahene trial

Samson Lardy Anyenini, a private legal practitioner, questioned on Tuesday, August 11, on Joy FM's Top Story, whether the criminal trial of former National Signals Bureau Director Kwabena Adu-Boahene could proceed if his defence lawyer is unavailable during the legal vacation. Mr. Anyenini stated, "I think that eventually we may find, and the case may not continue without counsel." His comments followed the decision by lead counsel for Mr. Adu-Boahene and his wife, Angela Adjei Boateng, Samuel Atta Akyea, to stay away from court on Tuesday, August 11.

Mr. Atta Akyea justified his absence by arguing that the legal vacation is traditionally a period for lawyers to rest. Mr. Anyenini, who was called to the Bar 50 years ago and practices almost daily, said his experience has been that lawyers are traditionally permitted to take a break during vacation. He noted that judges have indulged him and his colleagues, even in lower courts, to stay away during vacation. Mr. Anyenini suggested that the practical application of the Chief Justice's directive could depend on the defence counsel's availability.