Lawyer Questions Prolonged Detention of Wontumi FM Presenter Despite Bail Applications
Concerns are mounting over the continued detention of Wontumi FM presenter Emmanuel Kwakye Asare, who remains in custody despite pleading not guilty to charges of offensive conduct.
Kwakye Asare was arrested in Ejisu, Ashanti Region, and charged with one count of offensive conduct conducive to the breach of peace following a broadcast that authorities allege contained unsubstantiated claims related to the August 6 crash.
His lawyer, Enoch Afoakwah, expressed frustration over what he described as unwarranted prosecutorial delays that have left his client behind bars even though investigations are reportedly complete.
“He pleaded not guilty, yet he continues to be remanded,” Afoakwah said on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen. “We cannot understand why the prosecution still insists on keeping him detained when they themselves say disclosures are ready.”
Prosecution and Defence Clash Over Bail
During the most recent sitting at Accra Circuit Court 9, prosecutors confirmed that all disclosures had been completed and were due to be filed at the registrar’s office on Monday. Despite this admission, they requested that the presenter remain in custody, citing ongoing processes.
The defence had earlier applied for bail, but the request was denied, prompting criticism from Afoakwah, who cited constitutional provisions to argue that his client should be released pending trial.
He referenced the landmark Supreme Court ruling in Kpebu vs Attorney-General (No. 2), along with Article 296 of the 1992 Constitution and Section 96(6) of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30), all of which affirm bail as a right unless an accused has pleaded guilty or has been convicted.
Next Steps in the Case
The matter has faced multiple adjournments, with the next hearing scheduled for Wednesday, August 27, 2025. Afoakwah insists that the prolonged detention of his client undermines both the constitutional right to bail and the principle of fair trial.
“Our concern is how the prosecution is handling this case, especially given that the law is clear on the conditions for granting bail,” he stressed.
The case continues to generate debate about press freedom, judicial efficiency, and the treatment of media practitioners under Ghanaian law.
Source: My News Ghana
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