Kwabenya court grants GH¢60,000 bail to preacher accused of Incest

The Kwabenya Circuit Court has granted bail to Godwin Asher, a 40-year-old preacher and mason, who is facing charges of incest and causing harm to his biological daughter.

Asher, represented by lawyer Godfred Anim Darko, was admitted to bail in the sum of GH¢60,000 with three sureties. He is set to reappear before the court on September 23, 2025.

In court, Asher pleaded not guilty. His lawyer argued that there was “no sexual offence between him and his daughter,” stressing that the accused is neither a flight risk nor without a permanent address.

Mr. Darko further submitted that bail should not serve as a form of punishment, but rather as a means to ensure the accused has the opportunity to prepare his defence and maintain access to legal counsel.

Prosecution’s Case

Prosecutor Inspector Diana Achana did not oppose the bail application, leaving the matter to the discretion of the court. She informed the court that the victim is currently residing with a relative at Pokuase.

According to the prosecution, a 64-year-old beautician and neighbour of the accused at Ashongman Estate observed the victim bleeding from her right palm on August 2, 2025. When questioned, the victim reportedly said she sustained the injury while trying to defend herself with a cutlass during an alleged assault by her father.

Investigations, however, revealed further allegations: that Asher had been having sexual intercourse with the victim, the most recent act allegedly occurring on July 30, 2025.

A medical form was issued by the police, and the victim subsequently underwent examination and treatment.