High Court Judge Justice Lydia Osei Marfo has issued a strong warning to jurors who repeatedly fail to attend court proceedings, threatening them with sanctions. The judge’s frustration stems from the frequent absence of three jurors in a high-profile case involving the alleged murder of the late Member of Parliament, Mr. Joseph Boakye Danquah Adu, for Abuakwa North.
Justice Lydia Osei Marfo emphasized that jurors have a duty to recognize court sittings and must demonstrate their commitment by consistently attending. The warning was given when the eighth prosecution witness, Detective Chief Inspector Augustus Nkrumah, was expected to conclude his evidence in the case titled “The Republic versus Daniel Asiedu and Vincent Bosu.”
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However, the court was forced to adjourn the session as only four out of the seven jury members were present. Expressing disappointment, Justice Osei Marfo revealed that the jurors had previously cited delayed allowances as the reason for their absence. However, she firmly stated that the jurors’ financial obligations had been fulfilled by the government a month ago, leaving no valid reason for their absences.
The judge expressed concern that some jurors had developed a habit of refusing to attend court despite being empaneled. Justice Osei Marfo highlighted the impact of these delays on the proceedings and the inconvenience caused to other parties involved, who consistently attended on time.
To address the issue, the judge warned that any juror arriving late or deliberately absent from court from May 24, 2023, onwards would face legal consequences. The court also summoned the Dean of the Jury to appear before it, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
This incident reflects a broader concern among judges regarding the behavior and attitudes of jurors. Just recently, Justice Mariam Owusu, presiding over the case of the late Major Maxwell Mahama’s murder, also expressed dissatisfaction with the absence of a jury member.
