Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has refuted allegations of partisanship following her appointment to Ghana’s 9th Council of State by President John Mahama.
Her selection has sparked criticism, particularly from political commentators who question her neutrality due to her past role under the Akufo-Addo administration.
Speaking on TV3’s Hot Issues, Madam Akuffo dismissed the claims, lamenting the increasing politicization of national appointments.
She emphasized that her judicial career began under an NDC government when she was appointed as a Supreme Court Judge, highlighting that her professional record transcends partisan lines.
Madam Akuffo expressed disappointment over the tendency to read politics into every national issue, stating that excessive partisanship often clouds objective reasoning.
She insisted that President Mahama did not appoint her based on political allegiance, adding that her past judicial rulings had, at times, been perceived as favoring both the NDC and NPP.
“Unfortunately, we have become so embroiled in partisanship that we see politics in everything, People forget that I was appointed to the Supreme Court under an NDC government. I don’t think the president was busy searching for my political affiliation—he would probably not find any,” she stated.
Madam Akuffo stressed that Ghanaians should not expect the Council of State to be a mere rubber stamp for the executive but rather an independent advisory body committed to executing its constitutional mandate with integrity.
She underscored that while the Council’s advice is not binding, the President is expected to respect and carefully consider its recommendations before making decisions.
“Nobody should expect this Council of State to be a bunch of ‘yes people’ following along blindly, It is made up of experienced individuals whose advice the President can trust and take seriously,” she remarked.
Madam Akuffo also disagreed with growing calls for the abolition of the Council of State, maintaining that the institution plays a crucial role in governance,
She argued that rather than scrapping the body, efforts should be made to strengthen its effectiveness in providing objective counsel to the President.
Her comments come amid ongoing debates on the relevance of the Council of State, with critics questioning its impact on national decision-making.
Despite the criticisms, Sophia Akuffo remains resolute in her belief that the Council will serve as a valuable advisory body under the current administration.
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