The President, John Dramani Mahama has formally welcomed three new justices to Ghana’s Supreme Court, stressing that the apex court’s authority rests solely on public confidence rather than political power.
Justice Sophia Rosetta Bernasko Essah, Justice Edward Amoako Asante and Justice Anthony Fosu Adjei Jnr were sworn into office after receiving parliamentary approval.
President Mahama while swearing in the new Supreme Court Justices underscored that the Supreme Court does not derrive its legitimacy from force or political influence.
“The authority of the court does not rest on force or political power; it rests on the confidence and trust of the people,” he said.
“Confidence and trust that every matter brought before it will be determined independently, impartially, and strictly according to the law,” he said.
He charged the new justices to protect constitutional rights, preserve the separation of powers, and ensure that no individual or institution is placed above the law.
President Mahama also urged them to remain firm in the face of political pressure and public criticism.
President Mahama also reminded the newly sworn in justices that judicial independence must be matched by accountability, discipline and fidelity to the judicial oath.
“Public confidence in the judiciary depends not only on the soundness of its decisions, but also on the conduct of judges, the accessibility of the courts and the timely delivery of justice,” he stated.
President Mahama also highlighted the heavy toll that delayed justice continues to exact on ordinary citizens as according to him, prolonged cases, avoidable adjournments and late judgments, weaken public trust and can amount to a denial of justice.
He therefore called on the judiciary to intensify reforms aimed at improving efficiency, embracing appropriate technology and making justice more accessible to all Ghanaians, regardless of income, status or geographical location.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
