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The murder trial of Daniel Asiedu, accused of killing former Abuakwa North MP JB Danquah in 2016, is set for retrial after a split jury verdict failed to reach a conclusive decision. The seven-member jury returned a 4:3 “not guilty” verdict, prompting presiding judge Justice Lydia Osei Marfo to discharge the jury under Section 285(4) of the Criminal and Other Offenses (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30). The judge ruled that the verdict was inconclusive and insufficient for further legal action. Despite the jury’s decision, Daniel Asiedu remains in custody as ordered by the court.
According to the prosecution, Daniel Asiedu broke into the home of the late MP using a ladder, engaged in a struggle with him, and fatally stabbed him in the chest and neck before fleeing with three phones. Investigations revealed that Asiedu handed the phones to a third party to charge and unlock. Witnesses for the prosecution, including the MP’s driver, security guard, and a neighbor, testified to various elements of the incident. The prosecution also presented forensic evidence, with a pathologist confirming the cause of death and a DNA analyst testifying that traces of the accused’s DNA were found at the crime scene. The state argued that their evidence established Asiedu’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
In his defense, Asiedu’s lawyers described the case as fabricated, pointing to gaps in the prosecution’s evidence. They highlighted the absence of forensic tests on the alleged murder weapon, discrepancies in the pathologist’s delayed report, and concerns about the DNA analyst’s credentials. The defense also questioned why the jury was not allowed to examine the stolen phones to verify ownership. The defense argued that the case against Asiedu lacked sufficient proof and urged the jury to acquit him.
Following the jury’s inability to reach a unanimous decision, the court has ordered a retrial to address the lingering questions surrounding the case. The retrial is expected to seek a conclusive resolution to this high-profile murder trial, which has captivated public attention since the MP’s tragic death.
