UW/R: 29 April 2026 at 7:23pm
The Wa High Court has reinforced a prison sentence for Rashid Ahmed Anaata, a well-known wedding master of ceremonies, after dismissing his appeal and affirming his conviction for defiling minors.
Anaata, 38 years, challenged the verdict from the Wa Circuit Court, alleging injustice and flaws in the prosecution’s case. However, Justice Osei Wusu Antwi delivered a firm ruling, citing overwhelming evidence that proved his guilt beyond doubt.
The judge highlighted a wide range of evidence demonstrating Anaata’s involvement in sexual acts with the victims and dismissed his defense as “a sham, defenseless, and not candid,” pointing out clear inconsistencies.
Known across the Upper West Region as “Anaata,” he was a prominent MC at Islamic weddings and family gatherings. Public attention turned sharply in 2023 when multiple underage girls accused him of sexual assault and defilement.
Despite over a dozen allegations, prosecutors focused on three minors, leading to his conviction in October 2023 by the Wa Circuit Court, led by Judge Jonathan Avogo. He was sentenced to six counts of defilement, with a prison term imposed.
The current appeal concerns one of those cases, in which Anaata received an eight-year sentence with hard labor. The other two cases each resulted in seven-year sentences. Appeals for these remaining convictions are slated for June 19, 2026.
Throughout the hour-long reading of the judgment, Anaata sat quietly, occasionally glancing toward the bench. Outside, family and supporters gathered in emotional distress, some crying as prison officers led him away to continue his sentence.