Mahama urges judges to uphold impartiality in all cases including politically sensitive ones

President John Dramani Mahama has called upon judges to uphold impartiality in all cases, including those that are politically sensitive or unpopular. He emphasized that judicial independence is crucial for protecting citizens' rights and ensuring that decisions are made strictly according to the law. During the swearing-in of three new Justices of the Supreme Court, Mahama highlighted that the court's authority is based on the trust and confidence of the public, not political power.

He stressed that judges need not only legal knowledge but also sound judgment, personal integrity, intellectual courage, patience, and a deep commitment to justice. Mahama urged the judges to safeguard constitutional rights, uphold the separation of powers, and ensure no entity is above the law. He described the judicial oath as a serious promise to the people of Ghana, not just a ceremonial act.

The oath requires judges to administer justice without bias or favoritism while defending the Constitution. Mahama reiterated his dedication to judicial independence, stressing that it is not a personal benefit for judges but a safeguard for citizens seeking fair and impartial justice. He emphasized that judicial independence must go hand in hand with accountability, discipline, and loyalty to the judicial oath.

Public confidence in the judiciary depends not just on the quality of decisions but also on judges' conduct, the courts' accessibility, and timely resolution of cases.