Franklin Cudjoe Criticizes Ghana’s Judiciary Over Perceived Political Bias

Franklin Cudjoe, President of IMANI Africa, has issued a sharp critique of Ghana’s judicial system, expressing his dissatisfaction with several recent rulings, including the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Speaker Alban Bagbin’s declaration of four parliamentary seats as vacant.

Cudjoe accused the judiciary of becoming overly entangled in politics, suggesting that the courts are being manipulated for political gain.

He raised concerns about what he sees as a growing partiality within the legal system and its potential impact on the public’s trust in the judiciary.

“I am deeply concerned about the increasing politicization of the judiciary,” Cudjoe stated. “In my view, the judiciary has unfortunately become a playground for politicians, and that is deeply disappointing. The system is being used as a tool for political maneuvering, and this is undermining its credibility.”

Cudjoe called on Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo to take stronger action to safeguard the independence and integrity of the judiciary in future rulings.

He emphasized the urgent need for greater impartiality, noting that the current perception of bias is damaging the institution’s standing in the eyes of the public.

“It’s troubling when nearly 70% of the population believes that the judiciary is biased,” Cudjoe remarked. “This is an issue that cannot be ignored. I count myself among that 70%, perhaps even at the forefront. The public’s confidence in the system is at stake, and we need immediate action to restore it.”

The remarks come after the Supreme Court’s ruling on November 12, which overturned Speaker Bagbin’s decision to declare four parliamentary seats vacant. The case arose after Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin challenged the Speaker’s declaration, claiming that MPs who switch parties while in office should forfeit their seats.

The Court’s ruling, delivered on November 14, clarified that a parliamentary seat could only be declared vacant if a Member of Parliament switches parties while still holding office. This decision raised important questions about the scope of the Court’s jurisdiction, with two justices dissenting, arguing that the Supreme Court should not have heard the case at all.

Cudjoe’s comments reflect a broader concern about the judiciary’s role in political matters, with critics questioning whether the legal system is being used to serve partisan interests. The IMANI Africa president’s call for action underscores the need for a more transparent and impartial judicial process, one that upholds the rule of law and protects the public’s trust in the system.