NPP In Dilemma Over Acting Chief Justice

Following the hospitalisation of the substantive Chief Justice, Mr Justice Edward K. Wiredu, the New Patriotic Party Government is finding it "very difficult" in getting a replacement in an acting capacity. With the absence of Justice Wiredu, the next in command in order of seniority is Mrs Justice Bamford Addo.

According to sources close to the Supreme Court, the NPP is not willing to pick Mrs Bamford Addo as the acting Chief Justice, because of her perceived political inclination. It will be recalled that, she was one of the Judges that ruled against the Constitutionality of the Fast Track Court in the case of Mr Tsatsu Tsikata against the State.

If she is chosen, Mrs Justice Addo will go on record as the first female Chief Justice of Ghana.

Other Justices like Mr Justice A. F. K. Ampiah and Mr Justice Acquah, who have worked closely with the C.J. are candidates for the third highest office in the land.

Our investigations have it that, Mr Justice Ampiah is due for retirement next year and so may not get the nod, whilst Justice Acquah is not the President’s favourite.

It is therefore being speculated that the NPP might be settling on Mr Justice Samuel K. Brobbey, who is the President’s kinsman, to make for his ethnic agenda.

In our Friday, June 13 edition "Ghana Palaver", we broke the news on the whereabouts of the Chief Justice. Since our story, there has been no official response from the Judicial Service.

The head of the Judiciary is down with "a massive stroke" and has been receiving "intensive care" at the Police Hospital.

For now, "Ghana Palaver" will leave the matter in the public domain and leave our public to lead the discussion on this attempt by the NPP to bend the rules to suits a purpose.

In a related development, the minority NDC in Parliament has expressed concern about the absence from office of the Chief Justice, Mr Justice Edward K. Wiredu as no official medical bulletin has been issued on his current condition.

In a press statement, the minority noted with profound sadness the sudden ailment of the Chief Justice of the Republic.

According to the minority, there is public concern as the administration of Justice appears to be in a limbo this far and there is no telling when His Lordship will resume his public duties as the head of the Judiciary. While the NDC wishes His Lordship a speedy recovery, it is recommending as a matter of urgency and in accordance with Article 144(6) of the constitution, the designation in an acting capacity, of the next most senior Supreme Court Justice.