Lawyer for former National Signals Bureau (NSB) Director-General Kwabena Adu-Boahene, Samuel Atta Akyea, has questioned the Chief Justice’s decision to fast-track his client’s case and another high-profile criminal matter.
Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, Mr Atta Akyea described the directive as “selective justice”, arguing that several serious criminal cases, including murder, manslaughter and rape cases, remain pending before the courts.
He questioned why the Chief Justice had directed judges handling the selected cases to prioritise them when other cases continue to await hearing.
Mr Atta Akyea also raised concerns about the impact of the directive on established court procedures and the availability of lawyers who may have other professional or personal commitments.
He maintained that expedited hearings should not override existing legal traditions, court practices and statutory provisions.
The lawyer further rejected suggestions that junior lawyers in his chamber could take over the defence if he is unavailable.
According to him, the Adu-Boahene case is complex and involves sensitive national security issues that require his personal involvement and experience.
Mr Atta Akyea argued that the case is unprecedented because it involves the open trial of matters relating to national security, making it unsuitable for delegation to a junior lawyer.
He said he therefore would not hand over the defence to another lawyer, insisting that he had a responsibility to personally represent Mr Adu-Boahene in what he considers a significant national security case.
