Voting on all three arms of government should be considered in Ghana – Solomon Amankwah, NPP Odotobri Comm. Officer Writes
The Supreme Court has declared the political parties’ delegate system unconstitutional. This is a welcome decision that promotes constitutional democracy, political participation, and accountability.
Ghana has three arms of government: the Executive, the Legislature, and the Judiciary. The first two are elected by the people. To further strengthen our democracy and the principle of separation of powers, we should also consider allowing eligible citizens to elect members of the Judiciary.
Ghanaians contribute through taxes that pay judges’ salaries and fund the judicial system. The interpretation and application of the law directly affect every citizen. Therefore, eligible voters should have a say in who serves in the judiciary.
Electing judges would help strengthen both our democracy and the judicial system. It would reduce alleged political influence and selective justice, and limit the President’s ability to interfere with the judiciary and its leadership. After their term of service, Ghanaians could vote to retain or remove them from office.
This idea should be carefully considered and tested against the laws of our land.
Solomon Amankwah
Communications Officer, Odotobri
