Accra, January 21, 2026 — An Accra High Court presided over by Justice Audrey Kocuvi-Tay has given the legal team representing Gifty Oware-Mensah, former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), seven days to submit a list of witnesses in her ongoing trial.
The directive, issued on Tuesday, took effect immediately, requiring the filing to be completed by the close of business on the specified deadline.
Justice Kocuvi-Tay issued a stern warning during the proceedings, cautioning that any failure to comply with the order would leave the court with no option but to “advise itself” on the matter. The phrase is understood in legal contexts to imply the court may proceed without further input from the defence or take other appropriate measures to advance the case.
Oware-Mensah is facing multiple criminal charges, including stealing, willfully causing financial loss to the state, money laundering, and related offences tied to the high-profile “ghost names” scandal at the NSA. Prosecutors allege she was involved in the creation of thousands of fictitious names in the authority’s database, leading to significant financial irregularities, including the diversion of funds through a private company.
The case, which has drawn widespread public attention since charges were formally filed in October 2025, has seen repeated adjournments and procedural disputes. The judge has previously expressed displeasure over perceived attempts to delay proceedings, including requests for more time to review documents and other pre-trial matters.
Oware-Mensah was earlier granted bail in the sum of GH¢10 million with three sureties, alongside a travel ban as part of her bail conditions.
The trial is expected to progress toward a firm hearing date, with Justice Kocuvi-Tay emphasizing the need for expeditious handling of the matter. The next court date is anticipated to address compliance with the witness list directive and any further pre-trial issues.
The Attorney-General’s Department continues to lead the prosecution in what remains one of the most significant financial misconduct cases involving a public institution in recent years.