Accra: The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Minority Caucus has called upon nominees for the Supreme Court to prioritize the protection of fundamental laws and resist becoming tools for Executive convenience. This call was made during Justice Senyo Dzamefe's vetting by Parliament's Appointments Committee.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader, emphasized that the Supreme Court's authority stems from its moral standing rather than its political affiliations. He highlighted the importance of judicial independence, urging justices to base their decisions on law and precedent, devoid of political bias.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin, who also serves as the Ranking Member on the Appointments Committee and represents the Effutu constituency, stressed the necessity for the Supreme Court to safeguard minority rights against potential majoritarian overreach. He criticized the current government's inconsistent stance, referring to its opposition to the previous administration's nominations.
He pointed out the National Democratic Congress (NDC)'s resistance to the nomination of Justices Sophia Banasco and Professor Richard Oppong under President Akufo-Addo, which was based on claims of an overpopulated court. Yet, the same government has now put forward seven nominees for the Supreme Court.
Earlier this year, President John Mahama nominated seven justices from the Court of Appeals to the Supreme Court. These nominees include Justice Senyo Dzamefe, Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei, Justice Gbiel Simon Suurbaareh, Justice Philip Bright Mensah, Justice Janapare Adzua Bartels-Kodwo, Justice Hafisata Amaleboba, and Justice Kweku Tawiah Ackaah-Boafo.
The President's nominations are conducted in accordance with Article 144(2) of the 1992 Constitution, which mandates the President to appoint Supreme Court Justices in consultation with the Council of State and with Parliament's approval.
