Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has called on the public to exercise restraint in its criticism of the judiciary.
He says being measured in one’s comments is the surest way to uphold the integrity of Ghana’s democratic institutions.
Kufuor says the judiciary plays a vital role in safeguarding constitutional order in the country, the reason people should not denigrate it in their criticisms.
The former President’s remarks follow the Supreme Court verdict that described Speaker Alban Bagbin’s ruling to vacate some four parliamentary seats as unconstitutional, sparking a public debate since.
During a Sunday, November 17, 2024, encounter with some journalists, Kufuor urged Ghanaians to be careful in their pronouncements against the apex court, saying it is the constitution that grants it the authority, including the interpretation of laws.
He added that the Supreme Court does not go about looking for cases but it is rather individuals who send cases to the courts.
“We talk of checks and balances some also say separation of powers and I subscribe to the checks and balances. Even though we are in different institutions, if yours is not going well, I should be able to tell you to prevent the excesses. However, I urge caution and thoughtfulness regarding some of the criticisms being raised.
“In the Fourth Republic, the constitution is supreme and the same constitution empowers the Supreme Court with interpretative authority.
“Once the court delivers a ruling, it must be respected. But it is important to note that the court does not actively seek cases, rather, individuals bring matters before it,” he stated.
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