In a dramatic turn of events, Mildred Donkor, the third accused in the high-profile trial of former National Signals Bureau Director-General Kwabena Adu Boahene, has publicly dismissed her lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea, in open court.
The dramatic move comes as the trial, centered on the alleged misappropriation of GH¢49.1 million intended for cybersecurity defense software, officially commenced today at the High Court in Accra. This development has sent shockwaves through legal and political circles in Ghana, raising questions about the defense strategy and the unfolding narrative of one of the country’s most significant financial scandals.
The trial, which was scheduled to begin on July 18, 2025, as confirmed by earlier reports from Citinewsroom.com, involves Kwabena Adu Boahene and three others, including Ms. Donkor, accused of orchestrating the theft of state funds. The case gained traction after a state audit revealed the diversion of the substantial sum, earmarked for national security enhancements. Samuel Atta Akyea, a respected Ghanaian lawyer and former Works and Housing Minister, had been leading Donkor’s defense, bringing his extensive legal expertise to the table. His sudden dismissal by Donkor in court has left observers speculating about internal conflicts or a strategic pivot in the defense approach.
UPDATE ON X – Mildred Donkor Fires Lawyer Samuel Atta Akyea During Adu Boahene Trial in Ghana
We apologize for the error and any confusion caused in our earlier reportage as this is the correct information which supersedes the earlier report
Thank you and we’re committed to furnishing you with all the trending stories in Ghana
~ Atta Kyea fired by client#GhanaTrends pic.twitter.com/2fj0j7n9wp
— GhanaTrends.com (@GhanaTrendsInc) July 18, 2025
GhanaTrends.com, the media outlet that broke the news, issued a correction earlier today, acknowledging an initial error in their reporting. The outlet clarified that the information about Atta Akyea’s firing supersedes previous reports, a reminder of the challenges in delivering accurate breaking news. Studies, such as those published in Journalism Studies (2021), indicate that up to 60% of initial news reports contain inaccuracies, underscoring the importance of verifying details in high-stakes cases like this one. The correction has only fueled public interest, with many turning to social media for real-time updates on the trial.
Legal experts suggest that the firing of a high-profile lawyer like Atta Akyea could signal a significant shift in Ms. Donkor’s defense strategy. Known for his sharp legal acumen, Atta Akyea had previously criticized the court’s handling of the case, particularly the dismissal of a request to access operational account details dating back to 1992, as reported by GhanaWeb on July 3, 2025. His departure might indicate dissatisfaction with the court’s rulings or a decision to pursue a new legal direction. This pattern of changing legal representation is not uncommon in high-stakes trials, with the American Bar Association noting in 2023 that such moves can dramatically influence case outcomes.
Public reaction on social media platforms like X has been swift, with the hashtag #GhanaTrends trending as citizens express a mix of outrage and curiosity. Many are calling for transparency in the judicial process, while others speculate about the political implications, given Atta Akyea’s past governmental role. The Ghanaian legal system now faces heightened scrutiny to ensure a fair trial amidst this unfolding drama, with the outcome potentially setting a precedent for handling state fund mismanagement cases.
As the trial continues, all eyes will be on Mildred Donkor and her next legal move, with the High Court poised to address the vacancy left by Atta Akyea’s dismissal. GhanaTrends.com remains committed to providing updates on this developing story, promising to keep the public informed about the Adu Boahene trial, the cybersecurity fund scandal, and the evolving dynamics of Ghana’s judicial landscape. For the latest news on Ghana’s legal proceedings and financial crime cases, stay tuned to this ongoing coverage.
