The Cape Coast High Court II has successfully empaneled a seven-member jury for the trial of the two men who allegedly murdered a 25-year-old aspiring nurse in cold blood in Mankessim.

The court failed in its first attempt to constitute the jury on Tuesday after the second accused person, Michael Darko, rejected two of the jury members.

The court was, however, successful on Thursday despite the rejection of three selected members and has, thus, set Wednesday, May 15, 2024, to commence the trial in earnest.

The trial will continue on Thursday, May 16; Wednesday May 22, and Thursday, May 23.

Christopher Ekow Clark Quansah, alias Nana Clark, 65-year-old trader and Michael Darko, 48-year-old pastor, are standing trial for allegedly killing Georgina Asor Botchwey.

They have been charged with conspiracy to commit murder and murder which they have denied committing the offences, having not pleaded not guilty to three charges of unlawfully possessing explosives, firearms and ammunition.

Uncle to the deceased, Papa Annan Swanzy in an interview with Sompa News Eric Annan called on the jury to discharge their duty in all transparency as the bereaved family is keenly monitoring every step of proceedings in the case.

He charged the jury to let the truth prevail in their dealings and abide by the evidence presented to them by prosecution of the case because the entire country will be looking up to them.

Presiding judge, Justice John-Mark Alifo, in his opening statement to the jury cautioned them to be opened-minded and deal with the case based on the evidence presented and not approach it with prejudice.

He warned of dire consequences if jury members acted in ways that interfered with fair trial such as receiving gifts from persons connected to the case before, during and after the trial.

The Prosecution led by Vincent Nyineku, Principal State Attorney, with Clara Mensah Aggrey, told the court that they would present seven witnesses for the trial including Alfred Duodu, a brother of the deceased, Jonathan Obeng, the man who dug the grave, and a state CID.

They also hinted of submitting incontrovertible evidence to further prove their case.

Mr. Roland A.K. Hamilton, counsel for the second accused, Michael Darko sensing an attempt by the prosecution to play on the sentiment and emotions of the jury, urged the members not to fall for the ploy but pay critical attention to the evidence.

Source: Sompaonline.com/Eric Annan