An Accra High Court has dismissed a request by Bernard Antwi Boasiako to stop his trial. He is accused of illegal mining.
The court's decision means Mr. Boasiako must now present his side of the story. This is known as opening his defence.
Justice Audrey Kokuvie Tay delivered the ruling on Monday. The judge found that the prosecution had presented enough evidence to show a case to answer.
Details about the specific allegations against Mr. Boasiako were not fully elaborated in the court's decision to dismiss the no-case submission.
The case involves alleged involvement in illegal mining activities. Such activities are a concern for environmental protection and legal operations.
Mr. Boasiako and his legal team had argued that the prosecution had not proven its case sufficiently. They asked the court to dismiss the charges at this stage.
However, the court disagreed, stating the evidence presented by the prosecution met the threshold to proceed. The next steps will involve Mr. Boasiako presenting his defence.
The Judicial Service confirmed the court's decision. Further court dates will be set for the continuation of the defence stage.