A High Court in Accra has directed Nana Appiah Mensah, the embattled founder of Menzgold Ghana Limited, to prepare and present his evidence remotely as proceedings in the high profile case continue.
The ruling marks a notable shift in how the long running Menzgold trial is being conducted, with the court effectively allowing the accused to give his testimony from any location rather than requiring physical presence in the courtroom. The directive, delivered during recent proceedings, underscores the judiciary’s increasing openness to leveraging technology to ensure continuity in complex cases.
According to reports, the court instructed NAM1 to be ready to present his evidence “in the comfort of wherever you are,” signalling that virtual participation will be accepted as part of the trial process. This comes as the case moves into a critical phase, with the accused expected to open his defence and respond to multiple charges brought against him.
NAM1 is currently facing 39 counts, including defrauding by false pretence, fraudulent breach of trust, money laundering and operating an unlicensed deposit taking business. The charges stem from the collapse of Menzgold, which allegedly defrauded thousands of customers of hundreds of millions of cedis between 2016 and 2018.
Throughout the trial, the defence has maintained that the company operated within regulatory frameworks, with NAM1 previously telling the court that his business had the necessary licences and had engaged with the Bank of Ghana on its operational structure.
The court’s latest directive appears to be part of broader efforts to avoid delays and ensure that proceedings continue efficiently. Legal analysts say remote testimony could help fast track the trial, which has faced multiple adjournments over the years due to procedural challenges and applications filed by the defence.
However, the decision also raises questions about the implications for witness credibility and courtroom dynamics. While remote hearings have become more common globally, especially after the COVID era, their application in high stakes criminal trials remains a subject of debate among legal experts.
Prosecutors are expected to continue cross examination once NAM1 begins presenting his evidence, whether virtually or in person. The court has also emphasised the need for all documentary evidence to be filed ahead of hearings, reinforcing procedural discipline as the case progresses.
The Menzgold saga remains one of Ghana’s most prominent financial scandals in recent history, with thousands of customers still seeking recovery of locked up funds. The collapse of the company not only triggered legal action but also sparked widespread discussions about regulatory oversight, investor protection and financial literacy in the country.
As the trial enters this new phase, attention will be on how effectively the remote testimony process will work and whether it will accelerate the delivery of justice in a case that has dragged on for years.
The next hearing is expected to focus on the presentation of evidence by the accused, setting the stage for a decisive stage in the prosecution.
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