President Mahama Urges New Supreme Court Justices to Administer Justice Independently
President John Dramani Mahama has urged three newly sworn-in Justices of the Supreme Court to administer justice independently and without yielding to political or public pressure, saying fidelity to the Constitution must remain the defining principle of their judicial service.
He said judges of the nation’s apex court would inevitably preside over cases that attract intense public interest and competing political considerations, but must remain guided solely by the law, the evidence and the dictates of justice.
President Mahama gave the charge after swearing in Justice Sophia Rosetta Oduokunwa Bernasco-Essa, Justice Edward Amoako Asante and Mr Anthony Forson Jnr. as Justices of the Supreme Court at the Jubilee House on Thursday.
“Let the Constitution remain your compass. You will sometimes be called upon to decide matters that generate strong public emotions and competing political interests,” the President said.
He cautioned the Justices not to allow themselves to be influenced by praise, criticism or the identities of individuals, governments or institutions appearing before the Court.
“Do not allow yourselves to be defined by the individuals, governments, or institutions that appear before you. Let the quality of your reasoning define your legacy, the fairness of your decisions, and your unwavering loyalty to the Constitution,” he stated.
President Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to judicial independence, describing it as a constitutional safeguard designed to protect the rights of citizens rather than a privilege granted to judges.
According to him, the Supreme Court derives its authority not from force or political power, but from the confidence and trust of the Ghanaian people that every matter will be determined independently, impartially and strictly according to law.
He said those elevated to the apex court must demonstrate sound judgment, personal integrity, intellectual courage, patience and a deep commitment to justice.
The President also urged the judiciary to pursue reforms that improve efficiency and expand access to justice through the appropriate use of technology.
He expressed concern over prolonged cases, avoidable adjournments and delays in delivering judgments, warning that justice delayed weakens public confidence and can amount to a denial of justice.
President Mahama further encouraged the Supreme Court to communicate its decisions with clarity so that they provide dependable guidance to lower courts, public institutions, legal practitioners and citizens.
He reminded the newly appointed Justices that behind every case file are human beings whose rights, livelihoods, freedoms and futures may depend on their judgments, and urged them to approach every matter with humility, patience and courage.
Richard Aniagyei, ISD
