NPP elections: The bench must remain the bench – Afenyo-Markin on judicial independence
by Gabs · MyNewsGh.comMinority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has called for stronger protection of judicial independence, warning that public confidence in the judiciary depends on its ability to remain separate from political interests.
Speaking at the NPP executive elections, Afenyo-Markin said recent concerns over reported comments by the Chief Justice during visits to state institutions had raised questions about the appearance of political alignment.
The Judicial Service subsequently explained that the remarks were made in good faith and were not intended to undermine judicial independence.
Afenyo-Markin said the explanation did not address the broader concern about how judicial leaders speak about the political activities of governments.
“We wrongly reject that explanation,” he said. “Public confidence requires judicial leaders to exercise particular care when discussing the political agenda of any government.”
He stressed that political power was temporary while the judiciary had a constitutional responsibility that should survive changes in government.
“Presidents come and go. Parties win and lose. But the bench must remain the bench,” he said. “Its loyalty must be to the Constitution. Its purpose must be justice. Its independence protects all of us.”
Afenyo-Markin then warned about what he described as the danger of using the law selectively against political opponents.
“But when the law becomes a whip for brutalising and tolerating the opposition, a shield for friends and cronies of NDC government, then it is not a law anymore,” he said.
“It is a tool for instilling fear.” He argued that the consequences of weakening public confidence in institutions would extend beyond politicians.
“And fear never stops at its first victim. It comes for the journalist, the lawyer, the trader, the student with a mobile phone, internet bundle and an opinion,” he said.
Afenyo-Markin’s comments came amid the Minority’s concerns over the attempted arrest and subsequent detention of Baffour Awuah by EOCO.
The Minority has accused state institutions of using their powers improperly, while EOCO says it is conducting an investigation into allegations involving the MP.
He said the judiciary’s independence was therefore not only an issue for politicians but a protection for every citizen.
Source: MyNewsGh.com
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