Supreme Court judge nominee Justice Senyo Dzamefe has made a resounding declaration of his unwavering commitment to judicial impartiality. In his appearance before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, June 16, 2025, Justice Dzamefe emphasized that his decisions are solely rooted in evidence and not influenced by personal connections or friendships.
During the vetting process, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, raised concerns about a past comment made by Justice Dzamefe regarding the need for judges to lobby friends in government for financial support. The MP expressed apprehension that such reliance on personal relationships could potentially impact the fairness of justice delivery, especially when the same individuals are involved.
Justice Dzamefe’s unequivocal stance on upholding the rule of law underscores a fundamental principle of judicial systems worldwide – that legal judgments must be based on factual evidence and applicable laws, devoid of any form of bias or outside influence. This declaration is crucial for a nominee to Ghana’s highest court, reassuring the public and stakeholders of the judiciary’s independence and integrity.
The vetting process before Parliament’s Appointments Committee, chaired by First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor, plays a vital role in Ghana’s constitutional framework. It allows Members of Parliament to scrutinize the nominees’ temperament, legal philosophy, and commitment to upholding the rule of law. Questions posed during the vetting often delve into the nominees’ past rulings, understanding of constitutional principles, and views on judicial independence.
Justice Dzamefe’s emphasis on relying solely on “evidence” in rendering judgments aims to build trust in the fairness and transparency of the judicial process, which are essential components for upholding the rule of law and ensuring democratic governance. His appearance before the committee is part of a series of vetting sessions for Supreme Court judicial nominees nominated by President John Dramani Mahama.
The overarching goal of the vetting process is to ensure that only individuals with sound knowledge, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to justice are appointed to the Supreme Court bench. By reaffirming his dedication to impartiality and evidence-based decision-making, Justice Dzamefe is setting a precedent for the judiciary’s integrity and independence.
Overall, Justice Dzamefe’s assertion serves as a beacon of hope for a judiciary that upholds the principles of fairness, transparency, and justice for all. His unwavering commitment to judicial impartiality is a testament to his readiness to serve on Ghana’s highest court with integrity and dedication to upholding the rule of law.
