Kwabena Adu-Boahene ordered to open defense in GH‵49.1m case

The Accra High Court has ordered Kwabena Adu-Boahene, the former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), to open his defense in a GH₵49.1 million criminal case involving allegations of stealing and money laundering. The ruling, delivered after the court dismissed a "no case" submission by the defense, also requires his wife, Angela Adjei-Boateng, and their company, Advantage Solutions Limited, to answer to the charges. While the court acquitted the couple on two counts related to defrauding by false pretenses and obtaining public funds through false statements, it maintained that the prosecution had established a prima facie case for the remaining nine charges.

The case revolves around a cyber-defence procurement matter in which the state alleges that the accused dishonestly appropriated public funds. The prosecution argued that Adu-Boahene and his associates used their company to facilitate the transfer of state resources for personal gain. In the ruling, the presiding judge noted that there was sufficient evidence regarding the misuse of public office and stealing to warrant a full trial. The accused have pleaded not guilty to all charges, maintaining that their actions were within the scope of legal procurement and business operations.

Samuel Atta Akyea, lead counsel for the defense, has indicated that his clients may appeal the decision. He described the court's ruling as having "gaping holes" and contested the assertion that a prima facie case had been established. The defense previously argued that the prosecution failed to provide evidence of criminal intent or clarity on the nature of the funds involved. Despite these objections, the legal proceedings are set to continue, with the court focusing on the nine outstanding charges of financial misconduct.

The court has directed Adu-Boahene and the other accused parties to file their witness statements by December 4, 2026. The trial is scheduled to resume on December 10, 2026, when the defense will formally present its evidence and witnesses. This high-profile case continues to draw attention as a significant test of accountability regarding the management of state security resources and the conduct of public officials.