Comment on today’s hearing in Ghana

August 29 2007

The two 16 year old British girls currently standing trial in Ghana will be back in court on Wednesday, 29 August 2007.

“Fair Trials Abroad has been working closely with lawyers in Accra and London to help prepare the defence case,” said Fair Trials Abroad (FTA) Chief Executive Catherine Wolthuizen.

“The girls vigorously deny the charges of drug smuggling levied against them.

“For the protection of minors, Ghanaian juvenile justice laws prevent discussion of the case, which is taking place in closed court. FTA has therefore been dismayed to read accounts of the trial in the media, many of which have been inaccurate.

“We were also disappointed that the local authorities saw fit to use last week’s hearing as an opportunity for publicity, reportedly burning part of the evidence outside the court.

“We sincerely hope such stunts are not repeated, and that the Ghanaian juvenile justice system and the rights of all involved in this case, are properly respected by all parties,” concluded Ms Wolthuizen.

For further comment, please contact Catherine Wolthuizen on 0207 762 6400 or 07846472923.