Govt respects the independence of CHRAJ - Kufuor

Accra, Aug. 3, GNA - President John Agyekum Kufuor on Wednesday said the Government respected the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) and would never abuse its independence. He said CHRAJ was established as an independent authority under the Constitution in the development of democracy and evolution of democratic dispensation to enable Ghanaians, who had been offended or had their rights abused to seek fairness and justice.

"CHRAJ is to ensure proper respect for the human rights of Ghanaians and administration of justice but the Commission's work which should be respected is now being questioned by the citizenry including Parliamentarians," he said.

President Kufuor made the call when administering the Oaths of Office and Secrecy to Mr Richard Ackom Quayson as Deputy Commissioner of CHRAJ at the Castle, Osu.

Mr Quayson, who had worked with the Ombudsman and CHRAJ since its inception in 1993, is the Head of the Commission for the Central and Western Regions.

President Kufuor said the appointment of Mr Quayson from the ranks of the Commission and seen as promotion was not occasioned by any personal interest for a cover up in the investigations being conducted by CHRAJ in the purchase of the hotel by his son John Addo Kufuor. "I hope you will not use the promotion to cover up wrongs or compromise any conflict of interest even by the President and any member of Government. You should help the Commissioner, the Senior Deputy Commissioner and the Commission to give loyal service to the nation and the institution you have sworn to serve. You should dispense your duty without fear or favour, tell it as your investigations reveal to your conscience," he said.

Mr Quayson pledged to work to strengthen and uphold the integrity, independence, impartiality and vision of the Commission to establish a good image for the nation.

Among those present at the ceremony were Mr Emile Short, the Commissioner and Ms Anna Bossman, a Deputy Commissioner. 03 Aug. 05