H.E. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo is seeking parliamentary approval following his nomination of three justices of the Appeal Court to the Supreme Court.
The nominees are Justice Anthony Kwofie, JA, Justice Yaw Asare Darko, JA, and Justice Adjei Frimpong, JA.
In a letter written to parliament read to the house by the first deputy speaker, Joseph Osei Owus who was presiding at the time on Friday, November 10, 2023, the president explained that over the course of the last few months in February, May, and June respectively, three vacancies have been created at the Supreme Court bench which now by conversation having regard to its excessive jurisdiction, comprising the Chief Justice and fifteen other justices of the court, these vacancies have occurred as a result of the mandated retirements of some justices.
The letter stated that there are now thirteen justices including the new Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
“In order to fill these vacancies and read the full complement of court, I instructed the Attorney General and Minister for Justice Godfred Yeboah Dame of my intentions to appoint to the Supreme Court subject to the satisfactory conclusion of the process set out in Article 144(2) of the constitution the following persons” the president stated
The president further noted that On 27th July 2023, the judicial council advised him, and the election was made under the hand of the council Chairperson Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo of the suitability of the nomination for the appointment to the Supreme Court.
Then upon receipt of the judicial council and in accordance with his duty under article 144(2), additional consultation was made with the council of state by submitting the names and curricular vitae of the nominees.
The Council of State also by letter dated August 11, 2023, noted him of the successful completion of the consultation process and therefore in accordance with Article 144(2) of the constitution, seeking the approval of parliament.
The first deputy speaker hence gave the directive saying “Hon. Members, the Nominations are hereby referred to the appointment committee for consideration and report” he directed
The Appointment Committee will commence vetting of these nominees, and submit their reports for deliberations at the plenary before their approval by parliament.
By: Mary Quartey
