Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has commended the Attorney-General for opting to appeal the sentencing of Chinese galamsey kingpin Aisha Huang. Huang received a four-and-a-half-year prison term along with a fine of GH₵48,000 from an Accra High Court on December 4, 2023, sparking concerns over the perceived leniency of the verdict.

In response to public dissatisfaction and calls for stiffer penalties, the Attorney-General, Godfred Dame, announced his intention to appeal the ruling. Kpebu praised this decision, stating that it would enhance citizens’ confidence in the legal system and contribute to testing and strengthening the law.

Kpebu highlighted the importance of allowing citizens to voice their disagreements with legal decisions, emphasizing that such discussions serve democracy. He disagreed with the caution in the AG’s statement, asserting that public discourse plays a crucial role in shaping laws that resonate with citizens.

Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah-Yeboah clarified the reasons behind Huang’s sentence, emphasizing that she was prosecuted for offenses committed between 2015 and 2017 when the amended law was not in effect. He explained that the judge adhered to the appropriate sentencing guidelines under the old law, which had higher penalties.

The AG’s office expressed a desire for a harsher sentence but acknowledged the judge’s adherence to constitutional provisions and the interpretation act. Despite this, the decision to appeal the ruling has raised questions about the rationale behind the move.