Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Member of Parliament for Effutu constituency and minority leader, has criticized President John Dramani Mahama’s recent nomination of seven Supreme Court judges, alleging that it’s an attempt to pack the judiciary with loyalists to facilitate a third term in office.
Allegations of Judicial Packing
Afenyo-Markin claimed that the nominations, announced on April 30, reveal a “deeper, more dangerous political ambition—a third-term agenda in disguise”. He condemned the decision, stating that it’s a strategic effort to tighten the government’s grip on power through the back door, undermining the rule of law.
Save Our Judiciary Demonstration
The minority leader announced a demonstration scheduled for May 5, dubbed “Save Our Judiciary,” aimed at protecting the institutional integrity of Ghana’s Republic and defending the constitution. Afenyo-Markin emphasized that the protest isn’t about party politics but about ensuring democracy and an independent judiciary.
Ghana Bar Association’s Stance
The Ghana Bar Association has also expressed concerns over the president’s decision, declaring the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo unconstitutional. The Association demanded that the president reverse his decision immediately.
Nominees
The seven nominated judges are ²:
- Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei
- Justice Gbiel Simon Suurbaareh
- Justice Janapare Bartels-Kodwo
- Justice Hafisata Amaleboba
- Justice Senyo Dzamefe
- Justice Kweku Tawiah Ackaah-Boafo
- Justice Philip Bright Mensah
The controversy surrounding the nominations highlights the tensions between the executive and judicial branches of government in Ghana.
