Mahama Cannot Prosecute Akufo-Addo Appointees Even If He Wins – Kwasi Pratt

Kwasi Pratt Jnr., Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, has expressed skepticism about former President John Dramani Mahama’s ability to prosecute corrupt appointees of the Akufo-Addo administration should he win the upcoming elections. Pratt points to potential challenges posed by the judiciary, which he believes will be a significant hurdle for an NDC administration.

Judicial Hurdles for the NDC

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has already raised concerns about the judiciary’s composition. They accuse Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo and President Akufo-Addo of “packing” the Supreme Court with the recommendation of five additional Justices. This recommendation followed a letter from Chief Justice Torkornoo to President Akufo-Addo requesting the addition of more judges to the Supreme Court.

NDC’s Response

At a press conference on Thursday, July 4, NDC General Secretary Fiifi Fiavi Kwetey described the recommendation as a severe threat to Ghana’s democracy. He accused President Akufo-Addo and the Chief Justice of conspiring to undermine the judicial system.

“This isn’t just a political maneuver of an already exiting failed President; it’s an assault on our democracy, a betrayal of public trust,” Kwetey stated.

Implications for Mahama’s Administration

Pratt argues that these judicial appointments will complicate efforts by a potential Mahama administration to address corruption within the outgoing government. He suggests that the perceived judicial bias could stymie legal actions against corrupt officials.

The ongoing debate over the judiciary’s independence and the integrity of the judicial appointment process is poised to be a significant issue in the lead-up to the December elections. The NDC’s allegations and the response of the judiciary and the ruling party will likely shape the political landscape in the coming months.