Uphold Spirit of Ghana’s Constitution- Mahama Charges New Supreme Court Justices
President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghana’s newly appointed Supreme Court Justices to serve as steadfast guardians of the Constitution, anchoring their decisions in the ideals of justice, equality, and democracy.
At a dignified swearing-in ceremony held at Jubilee House, the President administered the oaths of office, allegiance, and secrecy to seven newly elevated Justices, all of whom were promoted from the Court of Appeal.
The new Justices are: Justice Senyo Dzamefe, Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei, Justice Philip Bright Mensah, Justice Gbiel Simon Suurbaareh, Justice Janpere Bartels-Kodwo, Justice Hafisata Ameleboba and Justice Kweku Tawiah Ackah-Boafo
In his address, President Mahama described the Supreme Court as the final arbiter of justice and the cornerstone of Ghana’s constitutional democracy, urging the new Justices to approach their work with humility, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to the public good.
“The Supreme Court is not just a court of law. It is the final custodian of our nation’s conscience, the protector of fundamental freedoms, and the last hope of the common man,” the President said.
Judicial Integrity and Moral Responsibility
Emphasizing the gravity of their new responsibilities, President Mahama said the Justices’ role transcends the interpretation of statutes.
“You are called not merely to interpret the law, but to embody its highest ideals—fairness, impartiality, integrity, and courage,” he stated. “In an era of heightened public scrutiny and growing scepticism about state institutions, the judiciary must stand tall as a beacon of credibility and moral clarity.”
He reminded them that their judicial robes are not simply symbols of authority, but sacred emblems of public trust.
“Interpret the law not just as it is, but as it ought to be—alive to the lived realities of the Ghanaian people,” Mahama urged.
The Ghana Reset Agenda: Judicial Reforms Central
The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to the Ghana Reset Agenda, a national policy thrust aimed at restoring confidence in public institutions through transparency, inclusivity, and systemic reforms.
He disclosed that judicial reform is a central pillar of this agenda, and key initiatives are already underway. These include: Digitalization of court processes to improve speed and efficiency, Modernization of judicial infrastructure, particularly in underserved districts, Expansion of legal aid services to ensure access to justice for the poor and vulnerable, Enhanced training in judicial ethics and case management and Introduction of a Court Users Charter to improve accountability and client service
“A reformed and revitalized Ghana must rest on the firm foundation of a credible, independent, and efficient justice system,” Mahama declared.
Justice Senyo Dzamefe Pledges Commitment
Speaking on behalf of the newly sworn-in Justices, Justice Senyo Dzamefe expressed gratitude to the President and the Judicial Council for the confidence reposed in them.
“We are deeply honoured by this elevation and fully aware of the sacred duty we owe to the Republic. We pledge to uphold the Constitution and deliver justice without fear, favour, affection, or ill will—as enshrined in Article 144(2) of the Constitution,” he said.
Justice Dzamefe also acknowledged the weight of public expectations and assured Ghanaians of the bench’s readiness to uphold judicial independence, transparency, and integrity in their decisions.
High-Profile Attendance
The ceremony was attended by several high-ranking officials and dignitaries, including: Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, Chairman of the Council of State, Edward Doe Adjaho, Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, Members of the General Legal Council, Sitting Supreme Court Justices and Representatives from the Ghana Bar Association and civil society.
Legal analysts view the appointments as crucial, especially in a pre-election year, where the judiciary is expected to play a critical role in upholding electoral fairness, civil liberties, and constitutional compliance.
A Judiciary under Watch
The appointments come at a time when the judiciary faces growing public scrutiny over perceived partisanship and case backlogs. Legal experts and rights groups have called for renewed efforts to restore the image and independence of the courts.
President Mahama’s remarks reflected this broader concern, as he challenged the new Justices to let their legacy be defined by the precedents they set, the impartiality they uphold, and the lives they impact.
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