Former New Patriotic Party Chairman Freddie Blay has been granted bail by the Koforidua High Court after his legal team successfully challenged an earlier decision to keep him in police custody over a land dispute at Kitase in the Eastern Region.
The court admitted Mr. Blay to GH¢800,000 bail with conditions, including the provision of sureties who must be residents within the Greater Accra or Eastern regions.
The ruling follows an application filed by his lawyers, led by former Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame, who argued that the initial remand order was unwarranted.
According to the defence, Mr. Blay had no knowledge of the alleged offence linked to the disputed property and should not have been held in custody.
Health and Flight Risk Arguments Raised
Counsel also drew the court’s attention to Mr. Blay’s age and medical condition, noting that he is currently receiving treatment at the University of Ghana Medical Centre.
They further assured the court that he is not a flight risk and would comply fully with any bail conditions.
Related Article: Freddie Blay Land Dispute: What You Need to Know Now
The High Court, after reviewing the arguments, varied the earlier decision of the circuit court and granted bail, allowing the former party chairman to remain out of custody as the case proceeds.
Lawyers Criticise Earlier Decision
Speaking after the hearing, Mr. Dame described the initial remand as harsh and unjustified, maintaining that the circumstances of the case did not justify custodial detention.
He insisted that the legal challenge was necessary to protect his client’s rights and ensure due process.
Case Continues Amid Ongoing Dispute
The case stems from allegations that Mr. Blay ordered the demolition of a building under construction on a disputed parcel of land at Kitase.
While the matter remains before the courts, legal observers say the High Court’s decision signals a shift in the handling of the case, particularly regarding the conditions under which the accused is held.
