Private legal practitioner Bobby Banson has advised Ernest Kumi, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Akwatia, to voluntarily appear before the court to address the bench warrant issued for his arrest. Banson emphasized that such a move would demonstrate respect for the judicial process and help mitigate the legal consequences of the warrant.
Background of the Case
Ernest Kumi is facing a bench warrant for his arrest after defying a High Court order that placed an interim injunction on his swearing-in as a legislator. Despite the court’s ruling, Kumi proceeded with his swearing-in, leading to his conviction for contempt of court. The case has sparked a broader conversation about the importance of respecting judicial authority in Ghana.
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Bobby Banson’s Advice
Speaking on Saturday, February 22, Bobby Banson urged Kumi to voluntarily appear before the court to address the bench warrant. He explained that this approach would not only show respect for the judiciary but also help resolve the issue more amicably.
“If it were me, I would appear before the court with my counsel on the next day and inform them that I have filed a stay of execution, which is adjourned to the 28th, so I will come back on the 28th,” Banson said.
He added, “That way, it lightens up the issue of the bench warrant because now you have appeared and you have said that you will come back on the 28th, which is just next Friday.”
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Importance of Respecting the Judicial Process
Banson highlighted that appearing before the court would prevent any perceived acrimony between the parties involved and the judiciary. Respecting court orders and voluntarily engaging with the judicial process are essential for maintaining the integrity of the legal system.
“I only said that out of respect for the court, just to prevent the seeming acrimony between the parties and the court,” Banson explained.