A recent review has revealed that four judges of Ghana’s Supreme Court, appointed in 2023 and 2024, have failed to declare their assets and liabilities as required by law. This development raises concerns about the judiciary’s commitment to transparency and accountability
The Asset Declaration Act mandates that public officials, including judges, declare their assets and liabilities to prevent corruption and ensure accountability. However, it appears that some judges are not taking this responsibility seriously.
Calls for Compliance
Justice Senyo Dzamefe, a Supreme Court nominee, has emphasized the importance of judges declaring their assets. During his vetting by the Appointments Committee of Parliament, he stated that judges should comply with the law and declare their assets like all other public officials.
“If the constitution says all public officers must declare their assets, Supreme Court Justices must comply. I have declared my assets,” Justice Dzamefe said, setting a good example for his peers.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
The failure of these judges to declare their assets may undermine the public’s trust in the judiciary. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of the Asset Declaration Act and the need for stricter enforcement mechanisms.
Previous Instances of Non-Compliance
In 2022, it was reported that some judges and members of Parliament had not declared their assets despite the law requiring them to do so. The Fourth Estate, an online news platform, had to write to the Audit Service and the Judicial Service to inquire about the asset declaration status of judges, which led to some judges rushing to declare their assets.
The public expects public officials, including judges, to adhere to the law and maintain transparency in their financial dealings. The asset declaration process is an essential tool in promoting accountability and preventing corruption.
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