President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his steadfast commitment to upholding the independence of Ghana’s judiciary, emphasizing its crucial role in the country’s constitutional democracy.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of the new Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, President Mahama described the event as a “significant milestone” that symbolizes more than a ceremonial change.
He highlighted it as a reaffirmation of Ghana’s dedication to constitutionalism, the rule of law, and maintaining the judiciary as a co-equal branch of government.
On behalf of the government and people of Ghana, President Mahama warmly congratulated Justice Baffoe-Bonnie on his appointment and assumption of office.
He underscored the constitutional importance of the Chief Justice’s role, calling it one of the most vital offices under Ghana’s Constitution.
“The Chief Justice is not only the head of the judiciary but also the symbol and guarantor of justice for our people,” President Mahama stated.
He noted that the Chief Justice presides over the Supreme Court, chairs the Judicial Council, and holds the critical responsibility of administering justice nationwide from bustling urban courts to the most remote districts.
The President recalled Article 125 of the Constitution, which mandates courts to administer justice in the name of the Republic of Ghana according to principles of freedom, equality, probity, and accountability.
He emphasized that as the nation’s top judicial officer, the Chief Justice is the foremost guardian of these principles within the judicial branch.
Addressing the broader framework of governance, President Mahama stressed the importance of a balanced relationship among the executive, legislature, and judiciary. Each branch of government, he said, “Is supposed to operate independently, and yet they have to collaborate in order to serve the common good.”
Highlighting the judiciary’s independence as a constitutional necessity rather than a privilege, the President pledged his unwavering support to safeguarding the judiciary’s institutional, financial, and administrative autonomy.
“And so today, as President, I pledge my unwavering commitment to the independence of the judiciary,” President Mahama stated, adding “It is a constitutional necessity and a protection for every citizen, including the President,” he affirmed.
He further called on all Ghanaians to respect and enforce court decisions, regardless of their popularity, asserting this as the foundation of the rule of law in Ghana.
“We must, therefore, jealously safeguard the institutional, financial and administrative autonomy of our courts. Decisions of our courts, whether we agree or not, whether popular or unpopular, must be respected and enforced. This is the bedrock of the rule of law,” President Mahama stressed.
Source: www.Kumasimail.com
