Sky Train Scandal: Ex-GIIF CEO Remains in Custody Over Unmet Bail Conditions

Solomon Asamoah, the former CEO of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF) and the first accused in the ongoing Sky Train case, is still behind bars after failing to meet bail conditions set a week ago.

Asamoah is facing trial alongside the former Board Chair of the fund, Prof. Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi, for charges related to causing financial loss to the state and misusing public funds.

The two are accused of authorizing a $2 million transfer from GIIF accounts to Africa Investor Holdings, the company contracted to build the Sky Train project. The transfer, prosecutors claim, was made without proper authorization and for no work completed.

At his initial court appearance on May 13, Asamoah pleaded not guilty and was granted bail of GH¢15 million, requiring two sureties with landed property in Accra. However, at the court session on May 20, it was revealed that he had not met the bail conditions and remains in custody.

Meanwhile, Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi, who was absent during the previous arraignment due to health issues, missed court again on May 20. His lawyer explained that the former board chair had been rushed to the hospital earlier that morning. The presiding judge, Justice Comfort Tasiame, raised concerns about the timing of these medical emergencies, which have consistently coincided with scheduled court dates.

Despite these concerns, the lawyer assured the court that Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi would be present for the next hearing on Friday. The prosecution acknowledged the judge’s comments and suggested that they might reconsider their strategy regarding the absent accused at the next hearing.

The case has been adjourned to Monday, May 26, at 10:00 a.m.