By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
Bright Alan Debrah, one of the men convicted in connection with an alleged coup attempt against the government of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has been granted bail by the Court of Appeal pending the determination of his appeal.
A three-member panel of justices ruled in Debrah’s favour after reviewing affidavits filed by both the defence and prosecution. The court held that the applicant had shown “exceptional circumstances” that justified his temporary release while the appeal process continues.
The court subsequently granted bail in the sum of GH¢2.5 million, subject to strict conditions. Debrah is required to surrender his passport to the court’s registry and may only travel outside Ghana with explicit permission from the court. Additionally, he has been placed on a Stop List at all national entry and exit points to prevent unauthorized travel.
As part of the bail conditions, one of his two sureties must justify the bail amount with a landed property. The court further warned that any breach of the bail terms would result in an immediate revocation of his bail.
Debrah was among six individuals convicted in November 2023 for conspiracy to commit high treason and committing high treason following a trial over a plot to overthrow the Akufo-Addo administration.
The other convicts included Dr. Frederick Mac Palm, Donya Kafui, Yohannes Zikpi, Warrant Officer Class Two Esther Saan Dekuwine, Lance Corporal Ali Solomon, and Corporal Sylvester Akanpewon.
The alleged coup plot, which was foiled by security agencies in 2019, involved plans to destabilize the country and seize key state installations. The state’s case was that the group had conspired to manufacture weapons and recruit military personnel to execute their plan.
While Debrah and his co-convicts were found guilty and sentenced accordingly, his legal team filed an appeal, arguing that the conviction was unsafe and unsupported by the evidence presented.
The latest ruling by the Court of Appeal allows Debrah to remain on bail as his appeal is heard, offering him temporary relief amid his ongoing legal battle.
