Accra, March 16, GNA - Mrs Zita Okaikoi, Minister of Tourism, on Tuesday ended her evidence in the case of Stephen Asamoah-Boateng, former Minister of Information, and National Orientation and seven others. Mrs Okaikoi was to be cross-examined by Mr Egbert Faibille, counsel for Frank Agyekum, former Deputy Minister of Information and National Orientation, and Mr Thaddeus Sory, counsel for Yasmine Domua, a businesswoman.

However, when the case was called both counsels told the Accra Fast Track High Court that after examining Mrs. Okaikoi's evidence critically, they had no questions for her.

Mr. Anthony Gyambiby, Chief State Attorney, expressed surprise at the action of both counsels, saying if they had made their intentions known earlier, he would have brought in a new witness.

The case was adjourned to Thursday, April 29.

Asamoah-Boateng, his wife, Zulieka Jennifer Lorwia and six other public officers have been charged with conspiracy to defraud the state. Also in court was a non-legal entity firm, Supreme Procurement Agencie= s Limited. The accused are alleged to have conspired to defraud the state of GH¢86,915.85 in renovation works undertaken at the Ministerial Block of t= he Ministry during Asamoah-Boateng's tenure of office.

The other accused persons are Frank Agyekum, Dominic A. Sampong, former Acting Chief Director, Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Kwabena Denkyira, former Director of Finance and Administratio= n of the Ministry, Prosper Arku of the non-legal entity firm, and Yasmine Domua, a businesswoman.

They have pleaded not guilty before the court presided over by Mr. Justice Charles Quist.

The court has admitted them to GH¢10,000 bail each with a surety.