Ghana's Supreme Court has dismissed an application by Solomon Asamoah, former Chief Executive of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF). Mr. Asamoah sought to overturn a High Court decision ordering him to open his defence in a case involving an alleged GHS 24 million financial loss to the state.
The former GIIF CEO also requested the Supreme Court to prohibit Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay from presiding over his trial. This dismissal by the apex court clears the way for the High Court proceedings to continue. The case centres on allegations of siphoning GHS 24 million ($2 million) meant for the Accra SkyTrain project.
This development highlights Ghana's ongoing efforts to combat corruption and ensure accountability in public office. The GIIF, established to mobilise and manage funds for critical infrastructure projects, plays a vital role in national development. Allegations of financial impropriety within such an institution can erode public trust and deter potential investors. This case follows a trend of increased scrutiny on public officials handling state funds, reflecting a broader commitment to good governance.
Mr. Asamoah and former GIIF Board Chair Professor Christopher Ameyaw-Ekumfi face multiple charges. These include stealing, causing financial loss to the state, and money laundering. Both individuals have pleaded not guilty and are currently on bail. The High Court had previously ordered them to open their defence after dismissing their submission of no case to answer. This decision came after the prosecution concluded its presentation of evidence.
Lawyers for Solomon Asamoah argued before the Supreme Court on October 14, 2026, that Justice Kocuvie-Tay had exceeded her jurisdiction. They claimed she made definitive pronouncements, specifically ruling that the ex-GIIF CEO was responsible for the financial loss. Deputy Attorney-General, Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, opposed this prayer. He stated that the applicants had not met the necessary criteria for their application for certiorari and prohibition of the trial judge.
A five-member panel of the Supreme Court, led by Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, reviewed the arguments. The panel included Justices Asiedu Adibu, Hafisata Amaleboba, Sophia Bernasko-Essah, and Anthony Forson Jnr. They raised concerns that sufficient grounds had not been established to grant the requested relief. Consequently, the Supreme Court dismissed the application, affirming the High Court's directive for the defence to proceed.
This ruling reinforces the judiciary's role in ensuring due process and upholding the integrity of legal proceedings. The continuation of the trial will provide further clarity on the alleged misuse of funds intended for a major infrastructure initiative. The Accra SkyTrain project was envisioned to improve urban transportation and ease traffic congestion in the capital. Any alleged diversion of its funds directly impacts the nation's development agenda and the welfare of its citizens.
The outcome of this trial will be closely watched by the public and financial institutions. It could set a precedent for how similar cases involving public funds are handled in Ghana. Decision-makers and markets will respond to the transparency and accountability demonstrated by the justice system. This case underscores the importance of robust oversight mechanisms within state-owned enterprises and investment funds. It also highlights the need for stringent financial controls to protect public resources from misappropriation.