‘I’ve never in my life lobbied for CJ post’ – Atuguba says lobbying is ‘a corrupt act’

• Justice Atuguba ‘s Principled Stand: ‘I’ve never in my life lobbied for CJ post’ and Why Lobbying is Labeled ‘a Corrupt Act.

Retired Supreme Court judge, Justice William Atuguba, recently made a thought-provoking statement, highlighting the need for unwavering dedication to uphold the principles of justice and integrity within the Ghanaian judiciary. During a public lecture on October 24, 2023, Justice Atuguba emphasized his refusal to lobby for the Chief Justice position, a stand that he considers crucial in preventing the compromise of one’s conscience.

Justice Atuguba began his discourse by pointing out instances where some members of the judiciary may appear to pledge allegiance to the executive branch or other interests rather than to the nation of Ghana. He raised a specific example where a Chief Justice of Ghana, despite clear provisions in Article 146, terminated the tenure of a Supreme Court judge twice due to ill health without adhering to the constitutional article.

Justice Atuguba’s determination to safeguard the Constitution and uphold justice was evident when he advised the concerned judge to respond to these actions, highlighting the breach of Article 146. This unwavering commitment to constitutional principles sets Justice Atuguba apart as a guardian of justice.

Further underscoring his principles, Justice Atuguba recounted a time when he found himself in a challenging situation. The same Chief Justice indirectly suspended him from Supreme Court cases for six months following his solitary dissent in the Tsatsu Tsikata v. The Republic case when it came up for review. Justice Atuguba’s refusal to compromise his principles in the face of such adversity demonstrates his dedication to upholding justice and the Constitution.

also read: On August 29,2013, The supreme court of Ghana rejected a challenge of the 2012 polls by Akuffo-Addo (ghanaeducation.org)

Not stopping there, Justice Atuguba narrated how he assumed the functions of the Chief Justice, as per Article 144(6), when the then-most senior Justice of the Supreme Court was sidelined due to his incapacitation. Justice Atuguba’s dedication to upholding the Constitution, even when it meant stepping into a role typically held by the Chief Justice, reflects his commitment to the rule of law.

Justice Atuguba’s refusal to engage in lobbying for the position of Chief Justice is a testament to his unwavering principles. He believes that lobbying for a position is a corrupt act as it may compromise one’s conscience. This stance reinforces his dedication to the highest standards of integrity within the judiciary.

In a climate where the principles of justice and integrity are of paramount importance, Justice William Atuguba’s commitment to upholding these ideals serves as an inspiration to all who believe in the sanctity of the law and the Constitution. His actions and words serve as a reminder that justice should always be the guiding light in the judiciary, untainted by external influences and political maneuvering.

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