Court of Appeal Dismisses Stay Application in Bissue Case

The Court of Appeal (Criminal Division) has dismissed an application for a stay of proceedings filed by the third accused, Dr Naa Dedei Tagoe, in the ongoing galamsey fraud trial.

The application sought to halt proceedings at the High Court, following an earlier refusal by the trial court to stay its ruling of December 9, 2025, which directed that the first prosecution witness testify in camera.

Counsel for the applicant argued that exceptional circumstances justified a stay, claiming that in-camera proceedings would infringe on the accused’s constitutional right to a fair and public hearing.

The prosecution opposed the motion, contending that no irreparable harm had been shown and that the High Court’s ruling provided adequate safeguards to protect the accused’s rights and prevent any miscarriage of justice.

After considering submissions from both sides, the Court of Appeal concluded that the applicant had failed to demonstrate exceptional circumstances or irreparable harm. The application was therefore dismissed for lack of merit.

Proceedings at the High Court are expected to continue.

Mr Bissue and two others are standing trial for receiving bribes and illicit gifts to unlawfully fast-track the issuance of a mining concession sticker for an unlicensed company.

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