By Daniel Bampoe
A family dispute over the custody and funeral arrangements of the late Charles Kwadwo Fosu has taken a legal turn, as his widow, Akosua Serwah Fosuh, and elder sister, Ernestina Fosuh, continue to assert their lawful right to oversee his burial.
The matter, which is currently before a competent court in Kumasi has drawn significant public attention following a joint press statement released by the family on October 16, 2025.
The case, filed through their counsel, William Kusi, seeks a judicial determination on who holds the legitimate authority to manage the remains and final rites of the deceased.
According to the statement, the widow and sister of the late Kwadwo Fosuh are challenging attempts by one Kofi Owusu, identified as the Abusua Panyin (family head), and his associates, who allegedly tried to assert control over the deceased’s body.
The family emphasized that until the court delivers its final ruling, no individual or group has the legal right to claim or remove the remains of Lumba from the Transition Funeral Home in Haatso, Accra.
Any such move, the statement warned, would constitute a direct breach of ongoing judicial proceedings and could result in serious legal sanctions.
The dispute centers on the question of locus standi—the legal standing of the widow, Mrs. Serwah Fosuh, to bring the case before the court.
During the last hearing, presided over Justice Dorinda Smith Arthur, the court cautioned the defendant, Kofi Owusu, against any actions aimed at deliberately delaying the case.
The judge further warned that such conduct could attract cost penalties, a signal of the court’s resolve to ensure the matter is handled with fairness and urgency.
The case has been adjourned to October 28, 2025, when a possible ruling is expected.
The family expressed gratitude to their supporters and the general public for their solidarity during what they described as a “painful and emotionally draining period.”
In their joint statement, the family reaffirmed their confidence in the judiciary, describing the court’s conduct as “fair, professional, and committed to due process.”
They also noted that the outcome of this case could set a legal precedent for protecting the rights of widows and lawful spouses in similar disputes across Ghana.
Mrs. Akosua Serwah Fosuh, speaking through the statement, said, “I trust the court and the justice system. My only wish is that my husband is laid to rest with the dignity and respect he deserves according to the law.”
Her sister-in-law, Ms. Ernestina Fosuh, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that the case transcends their family’s immediate grief.
“We are confident that truth and justice will prevail. This case is not only about our brother but also about protecting the rights of women and lawful spouses in Ghana. We believe that through the courts, fairness and respect for the deceased will be upheld.”
The Fosuh family, through their Communications Office, reiterated their call for calm and patience as the legal process unfolds.
They appealed to the public to disregard misinformation and allow the court to conclude its work without external interference.
The late Charles Kwadwo Fosuh was described by those close to him as a humble and respected man whose passing has left a void in both his family and community.
The court’s forthcoming decision is expected to bring finality to the ongoing custody and funeral rites dispute and potentially influence future cases involving family conflicts over deceased persons’ remains in Ghana.
