Judges owe allegiance to the law, not appointing authorities – Amoako Asante
Supreme Court nominee Justice Edward Amoako Asante has reaffirmed his commitment to judicial independence, saying judges must determine cases based on the facts and the law without interference from appointing authorities.
Justice Asante, who is among three judges nominated by President John Dramani Mahama for appointment to the Supreme Court, made the remarks when he appeared before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27.
He said judges, upon their appointment, swear an oath that guides them in the discharge of their duties and ensures fairness and equity to all persons who appear before them.
“As a judge when you’re appointed, you swear an oath which you go by; that is a very important thing that you do to ensure fairness and equity to all manner of persons who appear before you,” he said.
Justice Asante stressed that judicial decisions must be based on the evidence and applicable law, rather than personal relationships or considerations involving the appointing authority.
“Judges decide on cases by the facts before them; then you apply the law to the facts. Judges do not go mingling with the appointing authority just because they appointed you,” he said.
He further emphasised the importance of having an independent mind to withstand any form of influence in the performance of judicial duties.
“Independence of mind is very important, and that is why I have got to where I am now. I have independence of mind to withstand all kinds of influences, if any, to do my job,” Justice Asante added.
