President Mahama charges new Supreme Court justices to protect public trust

President John Dramani Mahama has charged three newly sworn-in Justices of the Supreme Court to protect public confidence in Ghana’s justice system and uphold the highest standards of judicial independence.

Speaking at their swearing-in ceremony at Jubilee House on Thursday, September 10, 2026, President Mahama stressed that the authority of the Supreme Court ultimately depends on the confidence and trust of the Ghanaian people.

The new Justices are Justice Sophia Rosetta Bernasko Essah, Justice Edward Amoako Asante and Justice Anthony Forson Jnr.

‘The authority of the Court rests on public trust’

President Mahama described the Supreme Court as a critical institution in Ghana’s constitutional democracy, noting that its decisions have far-reaching implications for the country.

He said the Court’s rulings give meaning to the Constitution, settle matters of national importance and contribute to the development of Ghanaian law.

According to him, the legitimacy of the apex court must not be derived from political power or influence, but from the confidence citizens have in its ability to administer justice fairly and independently.

“The authority of the Court does not rest on force or political power. It rests on the confidence and trust of the people.”

The President therefore urged the new justices to ensure that every case brought before them is determined independently, impartially and strictly according to the law.

Mahama demands clarity in judgments

President Mahama also emphasised the importance of clear and well-reasoned judgments, saying judicial independence must be accompanied by clarity in the delivery of decisions.

He explained that well-reasoned judgments provide dependable guidance to lower courts, public institutions, legal practitioners and citizens while strengthening respect for the judicial process.

He reminded the justices that their responsibilities go beyond legal expertise and require sound judgment, personal integrity, intellectual courage, patience and a deep commitment to justice.

Protect citizens and uphold the Constitution

The President further charged the new members of the apex court to protect citizens’ rights and uphold the principle that no individual or institution is above the law.

He stressed that judicial independence is not a privilege for judges but an important safeguard for citizens, particularly when courts are called upon to determine difficult, unpopular or politically sensitive cases.

The new appointments, he said, bring diverse judicial and professional experiences that should enrich the deliberations of the Supreme Court and contribute to the continued development of Ghanaian jurisprudence.

President Mahama’s message was ultimately a call for the new justices to see their elevation not simply as a professional achievement, but as a solemn responsibility to the Ghanaian people.

For the President, preserving public trust, defending the Constitution and delivering justice without fear or favour must remain at the heart of their new roles.