[1978]DLHC1154 • July 7, 1978 • High Court
MENSAH AND OTHERS vs. THE REPUBLIC
The appellants were charged with sedition under the Criminal Code, 1960 Act 29. The first appellant, Joseph Henry Mensah, was accused of publishing seditious words criticizing the National Redemption Council's economic policies and leadership, including allegations of inflation, corruption, and mismanagement. The second and third appellants were charged with aiding and abetting the publication. The prosecution presented evidence of the drafting, duplication, and dissemination of the seditious document, including testimonies from witnesses who read or handled the material. The appellants denied intent to excite disaffection, asserting their aim was to mobilize public opinion for policy change.
read moreJUDGMENT OF CECILIA KORANTENG-ADDOW At the Circuit Court, Accra, which has since its creation been generally designated as the “special court,” the first appellant was convicted of sedition contrary to section 183 (3) of the Criminal Code, 1960 (Act 29). The other two appellants were convicted of aiding and abetting the commission of the sedition, contrary to sections 20 (1) and 181 (3) of the Criminal Code, 1960. The first appellant was sentenced to a term of eight years’ imprisonment with hard labour, the second appellant to a term of six years’ imprisonment with hard labour, and the third appellant, five years’ imprisonment with hard labour. On these convictions the appellants have appealed to this court: the first appellant on nine additional grounds, in addition to the omnibus grounds contained in the petition; the second appellant on eight additional grounds and the third appellant on seven additional grounds. The particulars of the offence against the first ...