Ghana has first Muslim Justice of the Supreme Court since independence – Akufo-Addo
Ghana has first Muslim Justice of the Supreme Court since independence, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has announced.
In order to serve at the Supreme Court of Ghana, one needs to meet the requirements of Article 128 clause (4) of the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, by demonstrating the independence of spirit, proven integrity, high moral character, and impartiality of mind.
Though, the appointment into the Supreme Court is not a rotational practice, since independence of the Republic of Ghana on 6th March 1957, there has been no Muslim Justice at the Supreme Court as history stated.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo after resuming office on 7th January, 2017 has changed the face of the Ghanaian Supreme Court by fair representation of qualified Justices across board.
On Friday, 22nd May, 2020, president Akufo-Addo has officially swore Justice Clemence Jackson Honyenuga and Justice Issifu Omoro Tanko Amadu as Justices of the Supreme Court.
According to the President, the two Justices have both met the stringent requirements of Article 128 clause (4) of the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana.
During the swearing in ceremony, President Nana Addo indicated that, the newly sworn Justices have demonstrated the independence of spirit, proven integrity, high moral character, and impartiality of mind to hold this high office.
The Chief in Command of the Ghana Armed Forces disclosed that, the swearing in ceremony of Justice Issifu Omoro Tanko Amadu means that this is the first time in the history of the Republic of Ghana where a Muslim has been appointed to the highest court of the land.
The president said, he is delighted to have been the first President to have sworn a Muslim Justice into the Supreme Court and has the honour of doing so, and to do so appropriately in this Holy Month of Ramadan.
The Muslim community is particularly thrilled because Justice Issifu Omoro Tanko Amadu is a true ‘Zongo Boy’ and this achievement is an inspiration to many in their communities.
