Trial in absentia does not mean Sedina was excluded - Manhyia South MP

The Member of Parliament for Manhyia South has challenged claims that former MASLOC CEO Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu was convicted without participating in her trial.

According to him, the fact that the trial was conducted in absentia does not mean Sedina was denied representation or a fair hearing.

“She participated in the trial through her lawyer. Her lawyer cross-examined witnesses, filed legal processes and took part in the proceedings,” he said.

He explained that Sedina’s lawyer remained on record throughout the prosecution’s case and exercised the rights available to the defence.

“The only thing that did not happen was the opening of the defence and the calling of witnesses. That was a choice. It does not make the trial defective,” he stated.

Awuah argued that legal strategy often involves decisions on whether to call witnesses or rely on arguments already before the court.

“As lawyers, we make choices. Choosing not to call witnesses does not mean someone was denied justice,” he said.

He insisted the public should not be led to believe that Sedina was convicted without legal representation.

"Let's not throw dust into the eyes of the public. She participated through her lawyer and the court reached its judgment after evaluating the evidence," he added.