The Court of Appeal on Thursday, January 30, ruled unanimously that investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas cannot testify as a witness with his trademark face cover in the ongoing trial involving former Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kwesi Nyantakyi.
This decision came after the Accra High Court had initially allowed Anas to testify in disguise, with the provision that Nyantakyi could view his face privately.
Nyantakyi’s legal team challenged this decision at the Supreme Court, which sided with the accused, ruling that Anas must testify without his hood.
Anas’ legal team subsequently filed an appeal, which was heard on Thursday. Justice Ackaah Boafo emphasised that the constitutional rights of the accused, including the right to a fair trial, must be upheld. The court also referred to the previous ruling from the Supreme Court, asserting that the trial court should not have reconsidered the matter.
Nyantakyi is facing charges related to corruption following Anas’ exposé documentary, “Number 12: When Greed and Corruption Become the Norm,” which revealed widespread corruption within Ghana football.
The scandal led to Nyantakyi’s removal from all football-related positions, including his spots on the FIFA Executive Council and as CAF Vice President.
His life ban by FIFA was later reduced to 15 years by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
