Gifty Oware-Mensah Seeks Halt in Ghost Names Trial
Former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority, Gifty Oware-Mensah, has filed a motion to stay proceedings in her trial over alleged financial losses of over GH¢38 million to the state. The motion, presented by her lawyer Gary Nimako Marfo, seeks to halt the trial pending the hearing of an appeal at the Court of Appeal.
According to Joy News, Oware-Mensah’s legal team argues that a directive by the trial High Court, ordering her to file a list of defence witnesses and their addresses, is inconsistent with Article 19(2)(c) of the 1992 Constitution, which presumes innocence until proven guilty. The appeal challenges this directive, citing constitutional grounds.
The prosecution, led by Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine, had charged Oware-Mensah with generating 9,934 ghost names on the NSA Central Management System and using them to secure financing from the Agricultural Development Bank. She faces charges of wilfully causing financial loss to the state, using public office for profit, and money laundering.
The case has been adjourned to March 9, 2026, to allow the prosecution to file an affidavit opposing the motion. Oware-Mensah has pleaded not guilty and remains on bail.
The trial has sparked widespread interest, with many Ghanaians following the developments closely. The outcome of the appeal is eagerly awaited, as it may have significant implications for the country’s fight against corruption.
The case against Oware-Mensah is part of a broader effort to address financial irregularities in Ghana’s public sector.
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Author: Korkor Anumu
