The Military High Command has confirmed that Richard Jakpa, the 3rd accused in the ongoing ambulance trial, was dismissed from the Ghana Armed Forces due to persistent offenses and acts of misconduct.
Jakpa, who left the service 17 years ago, denies ever receiving the dismissal letter.
During the court proceedings on Thursday, June 27, Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah-Yeboah presented Jakpa’s dismissal letter as evidence. Jakpa’s lawyers argue this move aims to discredit his testimony in the trial involving Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.
On July 18, Nana Adu Gyamfi, Secretary to the Military High Command, refuted Jakpa’s claim of not receiving the dismissal letter. Gyamfi explained that Jakpa was dismissed for inefficiency, lack of interest, repeated indiscipline, and fraudulent misconduct.
“Persistent offenses and misconducts led to his dismissal,” Gyamfi stated.
Gymafi detailed Jakpa’s misconduct, including failing to return to his unit after a promotion exam and owing $400 to a Lebanese businessman, which he refused to repay. This debt was settled by another officer and later deducted from Jakpa’s salary.
Gyamfi confirmed that Jakpa had received copies of all relevant documents, which were admitted as evidence in court.
Despite Gyamfi’s discharge from the witness stand, the defense requested the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) to testify.
The court agreed, given the criminal nature of the case.
The trial will resume on July 23, 2024, with witnesses including Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin, Alex Segbefia, and Samuel Silas Mensah set to testify.
