President Mahama Elevates 21 High Court Judges to Court of Appeal, Including Dormaahene
President John Dramani Mahama has officially elevated 21 High Court judges to the Court of Appeal, marking a significant development in Ghana’s judiciary. This appointment reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing judicial efficiency and effectiveness.
Among those appointed is Justice Daniel Mensah, the Dormaahene, who makes history by taking on the dual role of paramount chief and appellate judge. This unprecedented move sets a notable precedent in Ghana’s judicial framework.
The response to these appointments has been mixed, with some judges linked to controversial rulings that have sparked public debate. Notably, Justice Senyo Amedahe’s overturned decision in the Akwatia contempt case, Justice Ali Baba Bature’s refusal to grant an injunction in the Ablekuma North election dispute, and Justice Anokye Gyimah’s management of the Opuni trial have raised significant legal concerns.
Despite these controversies, the appointments are commendable for their commitment to diversity, achieving an impressive 33% female representation and ensuring a broad regional balance within the judiciary.
This latest initiative follows the recent elevation of seven Appeal Court justices to the Supreme Court, further reshaping Ghana’s legal landscape. While government sources emphasize the necessity of these appointments for improving judicial efficiency, some critics argue that this continues a trend of restructuring that President Mahama had previously opposed.
The newly appointed justices are set to be sworn in at Jubilee House in the coming days, marking the start of their crucial roles in upholding justice in Ghana.
