Tension is heightening in over a land dispute in Berekuso in the eastern region, as fresh allegations emerge against Kwaku Kyeremanteng, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Comet Estates, who is accused of seeking to exploit the recent change in judicial leadership to overturn a High Court ruling that favoured the Aduana Abrade family of Asabi.
The original ruling, delivered by Justice Jennifer A.M. Ahmed at the Koforidua High Court, conclusively settled a long-standing dispute over 409.17 acres of land in Asabi-Berekuso, declaring the Aduana Abrade family, the rightful owners of the land, with the exception of 230 acres legally acquired by Comet Properties Limited.
Allegations are that Kwaku Kyeremanteng is lobbying the office of the newly appointed Chief Justice to reverse the ruling, which was issued under the administration of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
Those with knowledge of the dispute claim that Comet Estates is working behind the scenes to invalidate the court’s judgment in an attempt to allegedly regain control over the remaining land and continue with land sales beyond its legally recognized boundaries.
In the landmark decision, the court granted the following orders:
- The Aduana Abrade family are declared rightful owners of the land in Asabi-Berekuso, except for the 230 acres validly leased to Comet Properties.
- Comet Properties is confirmed as the beneficial owner of only those 230 acres, as stipulated in Exhibits “7” and “C” — a lease dated May 15, 2002, and an assignment registered in 2012.
- The family is entitled to recover any portion of the land beyond the 230 acres that Comet attempted to control or sell.
- Comet Properties, its agents, and affiliates are perpetually restrained from trespassing or conducting business on lands beyond the court-sanctioned boundaries.
- The court awarded GH¢50,000 in legal costs against Comet Properties Limited.
Reacting to recent developments, the Chief of Berekuso, warned the public to be extremely cautious when dealing with Comet Estates regarding any land transactions.
“Anyone who chooses to do business with Comet Properties does so at their own risk,” the chief warned, pointing to the binding nature of the court’s judgment and the legal implications of disregarding it.
The chief further urged prospective land buyers, investors, and the general public to consult the rightful landowners-the Aduana Abrade family-before engaging in any land-related activities in the area.
The family has also appealed to the public to respect the ruling and refrain from illegal acquisitions or development on the land in question.
“We advise anyone seeking clarity or interested in acquiring land in Berekuso to contact the family secretary, at 0536177213,” the family stated.
They emphasised that while they are not opposed to legitimate business, they will not hesitate to take legal action against any individuals or entities that attempt to sidestep the court’s decision.
The allegations against Comet Estates have sparked broader concerns about the independence of the judiciary, especially in cases involving land and powerful commercial interests.
If proven true, the attempt to overturn a duly issued High Court ruling through influence or political pressure would represent a significant challenge to the rule of law, and a setback for land justice in the country.
For now, the High Court’s decision remains binding, and Comet Properties is legally permitted to operate only within the confines of the 230-acre lease it holds.
Meanwhile, management of Comet estate has debunked the allegation of trying to turn the said ruling adding that management have rather appealed against the said judgment.
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