Veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt has reiterated the fundamental legal rights of accused persons, cautioning against any actions that undermine due process.
Speaking on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana, Pratt emphasized that being accused of wrongdoing—especially corruption—does not equate to guilt, and that every individual deserves a fair trial.
“Any person accused of wrongdoing, especially corruption leading to the loss of resources by the state, has a right to defend themselves. That person cannot be presumed guilty until proven guilty in a competent court,” he stated firmly.
Pratt also criticized what he described as a growing disregard for these rights in public discourse and political narratives. He pointed out that accused persons are under no obligation to assist in proving their own guilt, adding, “That is why accused persons can remain silent even in court. They can even refuse to plead, and so on.”
His remarks come at a time when discussions on high-profile corruption cases are dominating national conversations, with intense scrutiny on the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, and political actors. Pratt urged all parties—politicians, the media, and the general public—to respect due process and allow the legal system to function without interference.
On concerns that legal representatives are sometimes denied access to their clients, Pratt noted that such matters should be addressed in court, rather than being sensationalized.
He warned against prejudicial statements that could compromise judicial integrity, stating, “When you know a matter is likely to go to court, you cannot make prejudicial statements. It would amount to straightforward contempt.”
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