Some leading members of Ghana’s legal fraternity are calling for a more measured, law-based response to national issues, especially those related to the constitution. They argue that discussions must be grounded in facts and legal principles, rather than influenced by political motivations that could endanger the country’s peace and democratic development.
Paul Kumi, a private legal practitioner and constitutional lawyer, emphasized this point on the Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show on Ahotor 92.3 FM, hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra.
According to Kumi, President John Dramani Mahama acted within the bounds of the constitution in suspending the Chief Justice. He insists there has been no constitutional breach, and while the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has the right to react, fellow legal professionals must respond with facts rather than political bias.
“There is a need for some lawyers to rise above political sentiments and speak to the legal and constitutional facts of the matter,” Kumi stated. “The sanctity of the constitution must be upheld at all times.”
However, not all legal minds agree.
Former President of the Ghana Bar Association, Samuel Okudzeto, expressed concern over the international implications of the suspension. Though he acknowledged that the President’s action was constitutional, he believes it could harm Ghana’s image and economic prospects.
“When you suspend a Chief Justice, the message it sends to the international community is quite serious,” Okudzeto said. “We cannot ignore the diplomatic and economic consequences of such a decision. It could discourage investors and raise doubts about our judicial independence.”
The suspension came after President Mahama formed a five-member committee to investigate petitions filed against the Chief Justice. The committee includes respected figures from the legal, academic, military, and public service sectors.
But Okudzeto cautioned that following legal procedure is not enough. The manner in which the suspension is carried out also matters.
“Even if it’s constitutional,” he said, “you must be mindful of how it is executed. Optics and timing are critical in matters like this.”
He stressed that the international community closely watches how justice is administered in democratic countries like Ghana. “The perception of political instability in the judiciary could damage the country’s reputation,” he warned.
Story by: Alexander Kukah
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