Mahama charges new Supreme Court justices to protect judicial independence

President John Dramani Mahama addressed three recently sworn-in Supreme Court justices at a ceremony held at Jubilee House on September 10. In his remarks, Mr Mahama urged the new justices, Justice Sophia Bernasko-Essah, Justice Edward Asante, and Tony Fawson, to uphold Ghana's Constitution, maintain judicial independence, and enhance public confidence in the country's judicial system.

He emphasized that the Supreme Court's authority depends on the trust and confidence of the Ghanaian people, and that decisions should be made impartially, strictly according to law, and without fear, favor, or bias. The President highlighted the complementary skills of the new justices, praising Justice Bernasko-Essah for her extensive experience on the Court of Appeal and Justice Asante for his national and regional judicial expertise.

He commended Mr Fawson for his decades of experience in private legal practice and his transition to the judicial role. Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to judicial independence, stressing that it is a safeguard for citizens' rights, particularly in politically sensitive cases. He reminded the justices of their obligation to administer justice impartially and to defend the Constitution.

The President also called for reforms within the judiciary to improve efficiency and accessibility, including the appropriate use of technology. He noted that the Supreme Court's role in protecting constitutional rights, preserving the separation of powers, and enforcing the principle of no individual being above the law remained critical.

The President expressed confidence that the new justices' combined backgrounds would enhance the Court's deliberations and contribute to Ghana's legal and constitutional development.