The vetting of Justice Kweku T. Ackaah-Boafo for elevation from the Court of Appeal to Ghana’s Supreme Court has been indefinitely postponed due to a petition alleging judicial bias and misconduct. The Parliamentary Appointments Committee received the petition, which claims Justice Ackaah-Boafo displayed bias and used inappropriate language during court proceedings.
Allegations Against Justice Ackaah-Boafo
– The petition, submitted by Anthony Kwabenya Rau, alleges the judge insulted and attacked Rau during a hearing, questioning his right to represent clients in Ghana.
– Rau claims the judge’s written judgment contained personal insults, describing this as evidence of bias and corruption.
– The petition also raises concerns about Justice Ackaah-Boafo’s cultural understanding of Ghana, citing his Canadian background.
Response from Justice Ackaah-Boafo’s Camp
– Sources close to the judge have strongly disputed the allegations, dismissing the petition as “incompetent, bogus, unfounded, and without any merit whatsoever.”
– A Ghana School of Law student, Benjamin Alpha Aidoo, praised Justice Ackaah-Boafo as “such a gentleman” known for his integrity and respect for others.
Next Steps
– The matter has been referred to Speaker Alban Bagbin’s office for determination of the next steps.
– The Appointments Committee will await guidance from the Speaker before determining whether to proceed with alternative arrangements for the vetting process.
– Parliament’s Standing Orders require petitions to be investigated within 30 days to determine if they merit further consideration.