The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV, has voiced concerns over the growing tensions between the Speaker of Parliament and the judiciary, which, he claims, have raised serious alarms among well-meaning Ghanaians.
His remarks come amidst increasing scrutiny of recent judicial decisions, which he described as illogical and uninspiring.
The traditional leader’s comments follow criticism from former Supreme Court judge, Justice William Atuguba, who questioned the composition of the Supreme Court panel that ruled in favour of Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s suit challenging Speaker Alban Bagbin’s declaration of four parliamentary seats as vacant.
Justice Atuguba described the majority ruling as “predictable,” given the makeup of the panel.
Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the 9th Congregation of Ensign Global College in Kpong, Lower Manya Krobo Municipality, Togbe Afede lamented the state of the judiciary and its recent interpretations of the law.
He expressed disappointment with some of the decisions, noting that they have been far from inspiring and have caused concern among Ghanaians.
“It’s unfortunate that a former Supreme Court justice said the judiciary has become very predictable. It’s unfortunate,” he said.
“Some of the decisions that have been made by the judiciary have not been very inspiring. We want the judiciary to uphold the principles of fairness, freedom, and justice for all.”
Togbe Afede emphasised that the judiciary should be an institution that protects the rights and freedoms of the people and ensures fair justice.
However, recent developments, he argued, have raised questions about its integrity and the fairness of some rulings. He added that some judicial decisions seemed to defy logic, which has sparked public concern.
He concluded by calling for a judiciary that truly serves the people, protecting their rights and ensuring justice is fairly administered.
He urged that all institutions, especially the judiciary, should be free from partisan influence and work to uphold the rule of law and justice in Ghana.