President Mahama Swears In Three Supreme Court Justices

President John Dramani Mahama has sworn in Justice Sophia Rosetta Oduokunwa Bernasco-Essa, Justice Edward Amoako Asante and Mr Anthony Forson Jnr. as Justices of the Supreme Court, charging them to uphold the Constitution with independence, integrity and courage. 

The three Justices took the judicial oath after receiving parliamentary approval, joining Ghana’s apex court at a ceremony attended by the Vice President, the Chief Justice, Justices of the Superior Courts, members of the Judicial Council, Parliament and the Ghana Bar Association. 

Congratulating the newly appointed Justices, President Mahama described their elevation as one of the highest responsibilities in Ghana’s constitutional democracy.

“The oath you have taken today is consequential, not ceremonial. It is a solemn covenant with the people of Ghana,” he said.

The President noted that the Supreme Court occupies a unique place in safeguarding the Constitution, settling questions of national importance and shaping the evolution of Ghanaian law.

He said the authority of the Court rests not on political power but on the confidence of citizens that justice will be administered independently, impartially and strictly according to law.

President Mahama said each Justice brings a distinct perspective that will enrich the work of the Supreme Court.

He described Justice Bernasco-Essa as an accomplished appellate judge whose extensive experience in the practical administration of justice would strengthen the quality and consistency of the Court’s decisions.

Justice Asante, he noted, combines national appellate experience with distinguished service as former President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, bringing valuable expertise in regional integration, treaty obligations and human rights jurisprudence.

For Mr Anthony Forson Jnr., the President said his transition from private legal practice and leadership of the Ghana Bar Association adds the practical perspective of citizens, businesses and institutions that seek justice before the courts.

President Mahama expressed confidence that the varied experiences of the three Justices would deepen deliberations at the Supreme Court and contribute to the continued development of Ghana’s jurisprudence.

Richard Aniagyei, ISD