Afia Pokua, popularly known as 'Vim Lady', has commented on the arrest of a presenter who admitted to sleeping with a 14-year-old girl.
She emphasised that, despite public outcry for his continued detention, he is entitled to bail like any other suspect.
She explained that, although the severity of his case might suggest he should remain in custody during the investigation, the Supreme Court has ruled that all offences are bailable.
This ruling came after private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu petitioned the Supreme Court in a case against the Attorney General between 2015 and 2016.
The court's decision in Kpebu vs Attorney General established that all crimes are now bailable.
Vim Lady highlighted that judges now have the authority to grant bail to all suspects. Previously, the law prohibited bail for offences such as murder, subversion, treason, robbery, hijacking, piracy, rape, defilement, and escape from lawful custody.
"People who believe the man will not be released should understand that the law has changed. The Supreme Court's ruling means all offences are bailable. Martin Kpebu's case brought this change, allowing judges to grant bail for any offence," she stated.
She added that the suspect's lawyer has the right to request bail while investigations continue.
However, she noted that it seems unlikely the suspect will be granted bail due to his self-incriminating behaviour in the viral video where he admitted to the crime.
"Although the judge has the right to grant him bail, it is very unlikely at the moment. He might spend a week in custody because of his demeanour in the video. Even if his lawyer pleads for bail, it is unlikely to be granted," she concluded.
Background
Sompa FM presenter Nana Poku Piesie, also known as Kwabena, confessed to having sex with a minor who was in class 6 at the time.
In a viral video, he recounted how he engaged in a sexual relationship with the girl from the age of 14 until she entered Kumasi Academy.
His confession led to widespread public calls for his arrest, including from celebrities.
EB/OGB
