Judiciary must win public confidence to protect democracy – Asiedu Nketia
National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has called for reforms to strengthen public confidence in the judiciary, arguing that judicial independence must be matched by accessible, timely and credible justice. He said courts play a critical role in resolving political disputes and protecting constitutional rights but cannot effectively defend democracy if…
Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has urged the judiciary to bolster public trust to safeguard democracy. In his remarks at the 2026 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation Democracy Dialogue in Bauchi, Nigeria, Mr Nketia emphasized that courts must strike a balance between independence and accessibility.
He highlighted the judiciary's crucial role in resolving political disputes and protecting constitutional rights but stressed that citizen skepticism can undermine this vital function. Speaking on a panel discussing political parties and the judiciary, Mr Nketia illustrated the judiciary's indispensability through Ghana's 2012 and 2020 presidential election petitions.
Despite disagreements, both parties respected the court's decisions, underscoring the importance of allowing courts to adjudicate political disputes within the constitutional framework. Mr Nketia acknowledged that legitimate criticism of judicial decisions was part of constitutional democracy but warned against intimidation and personal attacks.
He stressed that judicial independence entailed freedom from political, financial, and personal influence, yet also required ethical standards, transparency, consistency, and public accountability. Concerning public confidence, Mr Nketia cited survey results indicating that only 35% of Ghanaians trusted the courts "somewhat" or "a lot."
He pointed out that half of respondents were doubtful about obtaining justice for wrongs and that legal aid was out of reach for many. To enhance access to justice, Mr Nketia advocated for strengthening legal aid, making court performance data accessible, and publishing transparent criteria for judicial appointments and promotions.
He cautioned against the judiciary becoming an alternative political chamber and urged courts to exercise courage with restraint. Mr Nketia called for ongoing dialogue among political parties, courts, electoral bodies, civil society, the media, and academia to prevent crises rather than reacting to them. He reiterated that the judiciary’s strongest protection was citizens’ confidence in its independence and integrity, which would fortify African democracy.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
