Deputy AG should be ashamed of himself - Judge

The sitting judge on the trial of the murder of overlord of Dagbon Ya-Na Yakubu Andani has recused himself from the case. This follows allegations of bias by the Deputy Attorney General, Mr. Ebo Barton Oduro. Mr. Oduro told news men he has evidence of a bias comment made by the judge, Anthony Oppong at a drinking bar and will make the evidence available at an appropriate time. He subsequently urged the Chief Justice to replace Justice Oppong because the prosecution could not be assured of fair trial. Mr. Oduro and the prosecution were expected to file a motion to state reasons why the Judge should not sit on the case. On Monday however, the sitting judge issued a statement announcing his decision to step aside. Joy FM's Cyrus De-Graft Johnson who was present at the court says the judge was unhappy with the pronouncements by the Deputy Attorney General. The judge asked the Chief Justice to transfer the case to another court. The judge among other things cited recent pronouncements by the Chairman of the National Democratic Congress Dr Kwabena Adjei on the Judiciary as well as those made by the Deputy Attorney General as reasons for his decision. He said he does not feel safe handling the case any more. He denied ever being at drinking bar and demanded an apology from the Deputy Attorney General. He said Mr. Ebo Barton Oduro must be ashamed of himself and asked him and the prosecution to be professionals and not act like stooges in a propaganda game. Story by Nathan Gadugah/Myjoyonline.com/Ghana