'We keep adding and adding to satisfy political objectives' — Togbe Afede criticises Supreme Court appointments  

Agbogbomefia of Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV, has called for a reassessment of Ghana’s process for appointing Supreme Court judges, arguing that the absence of a constitutional cap on the number of justices leaves room for political considerations.

Speaking at the grand durbar to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Supreme Court of Ghana at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), Togbe Afede said strengthening the independence of the judiciary should be a national priority.

“As a nation we all have to support in making the judiciary independent and strong.

“We need to take a second look at the way we appoint our justices. From the beginning they are made to be impartial and there is absence of an upper limit to a total number of Supreme Court Judges. We keep adding and adding to satisfy political objectives,” he said.

He described the milestone celebration as an opportunity for the country to examine the performance of the Supreme Court and reflect on its contribution to Ghana’s constitutional democracy.

According to him, the decisions of the apex court have significant implications for the nation, making it necessary to pursue reforms that would reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice.

“We would need courage as we move forward if we are to ensure, not only access and speed but fairness in the delivery of justice.

We also need courage to respond to changes in demographics, technology, among others.”

Togbe Afede further stressed the importance of preserving the integrity and reputation of the judiciary, saying public confidence depends largely on the institution’s credibility.

“We need to protect our image because that is how we can gain the trust of the people,” he added.

Reflecting on the history of the Supreme Court, he said the institution has remained a vital pillar of Ghana’s democratic governance, surviving various constitutional transitions and periods of military rule while continuing to uphold the rule of law.

He also used the occasion to renew calls for decisive action against illegal mining, describing the destruction caused by galamsey as one of the country's most pressing environmental challenges.

Referring to a performance by the Orange Girls highlighting the effects of illegal mining, Togbe Afede said the devastation inflicted on communities and water bodies was deeply troubling.

“I feel so much for our citizens, compatriots who live in areas that have become victims of the destruction of our environment.”

He expressed optimism that the judiciary has a crucial role to play in tackling both illegal mining and corruption.

“We can defeat galamsey. We can defeat corruption. The key to doing both is with the judiciary.”

Togbe Afede urged the Judiciary, together with all Ghanaians, to work collectively to eradicate illegal mining and strengthen the country's democratic institutions.

He maintained that Ghana must remain committed to building a stronger and more independent judiciary because “judiciary reflected who we are.”

President of the Ghana Bar Association, Mrs Efua Ghartey, also addressed the gathering, describing the anniversary as a moment to celebrate institutions that have protected the rights and freedoms of Ghanaians over the years.

She said the judiciary remains one of the institutions most closely associated with the country's constitutional order and praised the Supreme Court for its steadfast defence of democracy.

“As we celebrate 150 years, we celebrate not just the institutions longevity but its legacy of resilience, service and constitutional stewardship.”

The ceremony also featured goodwill messages from Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Dr Dominic Ayine, the Chief Justice of Sierra Leone, a representative of the Chief Justice of The Gambia, the Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana, and other stakeholders.

Established on July 24, 1876, the Supreme Court of Ghana is marking 150 years of its role as the country's highest judicial authority.