Associate Professor of Leadership and Management at Viterbo University, Prof. Enoch Opoku Antwi, has weighed in on former President John Agyekum Kufour’s call for Ghanaians to “criticize the judiciary but with caution.”
In a recent interview with Beatrice Adu on Midday news, he offered a nuanced perspective, emphasizing the people’s right to express their views on judicial rulings while upholding constitutional principles.
The former president’s admonition comes amidst growing public scrutiny of the judiciary’s decisions, particularly regarding the declaration of some parliamentary seats vacant by Speaker Alban Baggin.
Prof. Antwi highlighted the case of four years ago, where a similar situation involving former MP Andrew Amoako Asiamah led to the declaration of his seat as vacant.
He questioned the consistency of judicial rulings, noting parallels between that case and current decisions by the Supreme Court.
“People are entitled to voice their opinions everywhere, whether in America, the UK, or Ghana. Power belongs to the people, and they’ve vested that trust in the judiciary, executive, and parliament. Criticizing rulings is not only a right but also essential for accountability,” he stated.
Prof. Antwi also addressed separation of powers, asserting that while the judiciary holds a vital role, it must respect the autonomy of other branches.
He argued that the Supreme Court lacks jurisdiction in certain matters and should serve as an advisory body in cases primarily under parliamentary purview.
On the judiciary’s recent ruling, he said: “Based on precedent, this issue shouldn’t have reached the Supreme Court.
It should have started at the High Court.”
Prof. Antwi suggested that these rulings expose gaps in Ghana’s constitutional framework, urging the nation to use such moments as opportunities for learning and reform.
Touching on former President Kufuor’s political affiliations, Prof. Antwi noted that his public support for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia aligns with the tradition of former presidents endorsing party candidates.
“If late Presidents Mills or Rawlings were alive, they would have likely done the same for John Mahama,” he remarked.
Prof. Antwi’s comments underscore the delicate balance required between critiquing institutions and respecting constitutional governance.
As the judiciary continues to face public and political scrutiny, his call for thoughtful discourse resonates deeply in Ghana’s democratic journey.
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