PARLIAMENT APPROVES ALL SEVEN SUPREME COURT NOMINEES AMID OBJECTIONS BY THE MINORITY
HENRY GERCHI
Parliament has approved the nomination of seven judges to the Supreme Court, amid strong objections from the Minority Caucus.
The approval followed a heated debate and a decisive voice vote, paving the way for the formal elevation of the nominees to the apex court.
The Appointments Committee presented its final report recommending the nominees, including Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei, Justice Gbiel Simon Suurbaareh, Justice Senyo Dzamefe, Justice Kweku Tawiah Ackaah-Boafo, Justice Philip Bright Mensah, Justice Janapare Bartels-Kodwo, and Justice Hafisata Amaleboba.
The Minority Caucus led by their leader Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin opposed the nominations, citing concerns that the appointments undermine constitutional order and judicial independence.
They argued that the Supreme Court’s silence during recent breaches of natural justice raises questions about the judiciary’s role in safeguarding constitutional values.
And that the number of judges at the Supreme Court is being bloated.
Majority Leader, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, countered these claims, insisting that all seven nominees were thoroughly vetted and found competent to serve on the nation's highest court.
The Majority side of the House carried the day, with their endorsement ensuring the nominees’ approval.
Speaker Alban Bagbin had earlier ruled that the Appointments Committee's report was properly constituted, dismissing the Minority's claims that their inputs were excluded.
Speaker Bagbin stressed that parliamentary procedure allows for Minority concerns to be raised during floor debates.
The approved nominees are expected to be sworn in by President John Dramani Mahama.
Their appointments bring the number of Supreme Court Justices to 20.
Speaker Alban Bagbin had earlier ruled that the Appointments Committee's report was properly constituted, dismissing the Minority's claims that their inputs were excluded.
Speaker Bagbin stressed that parliamentary procedure allows for Minority concerns to be raised during floor debates.
