The Judicial Service of Ghana has clarified that the visit by Chief Justice Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie to the Black Stars camp in Canada was a private and patriotic gesture, following public discussions over photographs from the visit.
In a statement issued on Friday, June 19, the Judicial Service said the Chief Justice was on official vacation and travelled to Canada in his private capacity at his own expense.
The Service explained that during his stay, the Chief Justice, who is a football enthusiast and a Ghanaian, visited the camp of the national football team to encourage and support the Black Stars as they participate in the ongoing FIFA World Cup.
“The visit was motivated solely by a desire to support the national team and should be viewed in that light,” the statement said.
The clarification follows public commentary and speculation after photographs of the Chief Justice with members of the Black Stars team circulated widely.
The Judicial Service said the discussions surrounding the images did not accurately reflect the circumstances of the visit, stressing that judges are citizens who can participate in normal aspects of national life while maintaining their judicial responsibilities.
It noted that judicial independence does not require judges to isolate themselves from society, adding that what the Constitution requires is independence of mind, commitment to the law and impartiality in the performance of judicial duties.
The Service further stated that encounters between holders of constitutional offices and other public figures, whether in official or private settings, should not automatically be interpreted as evidence of bias, partisanship or political affiliation.
It reaffirmed the Chief Justice’s commitment to protecting the Constitution, safeguarding the independence of the Judiciary and ensuring fair and impartial justice for all persons regardless of political, social or personal background.
The Judicial Service also emphasised that national symbols such as the Black Stars unite Ghanaians and that supporting the national team should not be viewed as compromising the neutrality of any public office holder.
The Service urged the public to consider the circumstances of the visit and disregard what it described as unfounded interpretations of the Chief Justice’s actions.
It reiterated its commitment to maintaining public confidence in the Judiciary through integrity, independence, impartiality and respect for the rule of law.
Source :www.kumasimail.com
