The judiciary is a crucial pillar of democracy, and its independence is essential for ensuring justice and fairness. However, the practice of appointing judges based on party affiliation rather than merit has raised concerns about the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary.
When presidents appoint judges who are affiliated with their political party, it undermines the independence and impartiality of the judiciary. This practice can lead to biased judgments, unequal treatment under the law, and a lack of accountability.
POSSIBLE REASONS BEHIND THESE ACTS
One possible reason behind these appointments is to consolidate political power and influence the judiciary to favor the ruling party. This could be driven by a desire to protect the party's interests and maintain control over the judiciary.
The implications of loading the judiciary with political party people are far-reaching and dangerous. It erodes public trust, compromises the rule of law, and can lead to social unrest and instability.
NATIONAL SECURITY IMPLICATIONS
A politicized judiciary can also have significant national security implications. It can create an environment conducive to conflict, undermine stability, and lead to a lack of confidence in the government's ability to uphold the law.
NEED FOR TOTAL JUDICIAL CLEAN-UP
The current president and his government need to prioritize a total judicial clean-up to restore the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary. This involves reviewing recent appointments, ensuring that judges are appointed based on merit, and promoting a culture of independence and impartiality within the judiciary.
Merit-based appointments are essential for ensuring that the judiciary is composed of qualified and impartial judges. This involves evaluating candidates based on their qualifications, experience, and commitment to upholding the law.
RESTORING PUBLIC TRUST
Restoring public trust in the judiciary requires transparency, accountability, and a commitment to independence and impartiality. The government must take concrete steps to promote these values and ensure that the judiciary is seen as a co-equal branch of government.
Upholding the rule of law is essential for promoting justice, stability, and prosperity. The judiciary plays a critical role in ensuring that the law is applied equally and without fear or favor.
RELATED STORY IN GHANA
In Ghana, former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was alleged to have filled the courts with NPP affiliates, sparking concerns about the impartiality of the judiciary.
There are ongoing calls on the current President John Dramani Mahama to remove the Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, and conduct a total judicial clean-up. If this is not done, the government risks facing possible judicial interference in its ongoing Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) agenda.
IMPORTANCE OF JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE
If the Chief Justice is not removed and a total judicial clean-up fails, the John Dramani Mahama government may struggle to achieve its goals, particularly in holding corrupt officials accountable.
Finally, the practice of loading the judiciary with party affiliates is a serious concern that requires immediate attention. The current president and his government must prioritize a total judicial clean-up to restore the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary.