Parliament’s typically rigorous vetting of nominees to the Supreme Court of Ghana has hit an unexpected pause following a dramatic turn of events involving Justice Kweku T. Ackaah-Boafo, a Court of Appeal judge nominated by President John Dramani Mahama.
Justice Ackaah-Boafo’s vetting by the Parliamentary Appointments Committee has been indefinitely postponed after a last-minute petition alleged judicial bias and misconduct. The petition, which has since been referred to Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin, threatens to derail the judge’s elevation to Ghana’s apex court — a body that typically functions with a panel of 5 to 9 justices.
Allegations by a Human Rights Advocate
The petition was submitted by Anthony Kwabenya Rau, a self-described international human rights activist, who claims that Justice Ackaah-Boafo displayed extreme bias and unprofessional behavior during proceedings at the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) court.
According to Rau, the judge not only used disparaging language — reportedly calling him a “so-called ‘Messiah’ international human rights activist” — but also questioned his legal standing to represent clients in Ghana.
In addition, Rau claims that the judge’s written judgment contained personal insults, which he interprets as evidence of judicial misconduct and bias.
Claims of Cultural Disrespect and Political Bias
Beyond courtroom behavior, the petitioner raised concerns about the nominee’s cultural sensitivity, referencing Justice Ackaah-Boafo’s Canadian background and his alleged dismissal of age-based customs — particularly during interactions with the 67-year-old petitioner.
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Rau also alluded to a controversial ruling involving the former New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, claiming that the judge failed to award interest payments shortly before his promotion to the Court of Appeal under former President Nana Akufo-Addo.
Petition Labels Nominee as a ‘Threat’ to Judicial Integrity
In his submission, Rau stated, “He will be a disaster at the Supreme Court if approved — for the international and national interest of the Republic.”
He further accused the nominee of being “arrogant, biased, power-drunk, an abuser of human rights, and supportive of corruption.”
Despite these grave allegations, sources close to Justice Ackaah-Boafo have dismissed the claims as unfounded. They maintain that while the delay is unfortunate, the judge is prepared and eager to defend his integrity before the committee once proceedings resume.
Parliament’s Next Steps
According to Order 99 of Parliament’s Standing Orders, any petition received by the Appointments Committee must be reviewed within 30 days to assess whether it is frivolous or vexatious.
The Speaker’s involvement underscores the seriousness of the matter, with his forthcoming decision likely to determine whether the vetting will proceed or face further delays.
Judicial Independence Under Scrutiny
This controversy has reignited national conversation around the delicate balance between judicial independence and accountability, particularly when it comes to appointments to the highest court of the land.
As the country awaits Speaker Bagbin’s decision, the fate of Justice Ackaah-Boafo’s nomination — and possibly the future tone of Supreme Court appointments — remains uncertain.
source: myjoyonline
