Dormaahene’s Conduct is Inexcusable – Lawyer Adofo

Private legal practitioner Kwame Adofo has voiced his strong criticism of Dormaahene Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II, who serves as both a traditional leader and a high court judge, regarding his recent comments on the trial of James Gyakye Quayson, the Member of Parliament-elect for Assin North. Adofo emphasized that the chief’s conduct is inexcusable and violates the code of conduct for judges and lawyers.

In a statement on Nkwantannanso with George Adjei on July 4, Adofo stated, “Ordinary people can make that appeal but not a judge. It is against the code of conduct for a judge to make public comments about cases in court or cases about to be heard in court.”

Adofo further asserted that the chief should face impeachment proceedings, pointing out that as a judge, Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II took an oath to uphold both the constitution and the code of conduct of the legal profession.

He stated, “He has gone beyond the duties of a chief. He even ordered the Attorney-General to go for nolle prosequi, which shows he knows the law. It is inexcusable. Even journalists are trained not to do that.”

The controversy arose when Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II called for the trial of James Gyakye Quayson to be discontinued and for a nolle prosequi to be filed during the John Evans Atta Mills 10th Anniversary Commemorative lecture in Sunyani on July 1.

In response to the chief’s comments, Attorney General Godfred Dame assured the public that a comprehensive statement addressing the concerns raised would be issued. However, Dame cautioned against remarks that could jeopardize the fair adjudication of the case and emphasized the paramount importance of upholding the administration of justice.