The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has raised concerns over the conduct of the Judiciary, warning that public confidence in the institution could be undermined if the courts are perceived to be advancing the interests of the Executive.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, August 11, the party accused Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie of allowing what it described as “selective” criminal trials involving members and supporters of the NPP to proceed during the legal vacation.
According to the party, 29 courts across the country are currently operating as vacation courts.
It said the usual practice during this period is for courts to deal mainly with motions and urgent interlocutory matters, while substantive criminal trials are generally suspended until the legal term resumes.
The NPP, however, noted that two High Court judges, Justices Achibonga and Kocuvie-Tay, had been given special warrants to conduct full criminal trials during the vacation.
The party questioned why the special arrangements applied only to these courts and cases involving persons linked to the NPP.
The party also said defence lawyers had informed the Chief Justice of their unavailability.
It cited letters dated August 5 from Zoe, Akyea & Co. and Dame & Partners, followed by a reminder from the Ghana Bar Association on August 10.
The NPP further criticised proceedings involving former National Signals Bureau Director-General Kwabena Adu-Boahene, where the accused persons were reportedly given a short period to secure new lawyers or conduct cross-examination themselves.
The party argued that such a situation could undermine the constitutional right to legal representation of one’s choice.
The NPP has therefore called on the Chief Justice to withdraw the vacation trial warrants, respect the GBA’s concerns, restore normal vacation court practices and reconsider the directive affecting accused persons.
It warned that the Judiciary must remain independent and should not become an extension of the Attorney-General’s Office.
