CJ role too powerful, vulnerable to abuse-Prof Prempeh calls for reform

Professor Kwasi Prempeh, Chair of Ghana’s Constitutional Review Committee, has raised the alarm over the concentrated power held by the Chief Justice, warning it could threaten judicial independence and public trust if left unchecked.

Speaking at a Learning and Exchange event organized by the African Judicial Independence Fund (AJIF), Prof. Prempeh described Ghana’s judicial structure as overly centralized, with the Chief Justice holding unchecked authority over both the judicial and administrative arms of the court system.

“The Chief Justice has the sole power to empanel judges and assign cases. That power, if not regulated, is open to misuse. Even the perception of bias can damage public confidence,” he said.

He added that as political actors become more aware of the scope of the Chief Justice’s authority, the office could become a political target, undermining the judiciary’s neutrality.

Prof. Prempeh also called for transparent and inclusive reforms in how Supreme Court justices are appointed and removed, arguing that the current model gives too much control to the President, often with minimal oversight.

“Appointments can no longer be rubber-stamped exercises. And removal procedures, once rarely used, are now being weaponised—first with CHRAJ, then the Electoral Commission, and now the Chief Justice. It’s time to fix the gaps we once ignored,” he noted.

The concerns raised are part of a broader African struggle with judicial independence. According to Afrobarometer’s Round 9 survey, 38% of Africans believe most judges are corrupt—a sobering statistic that underscores the need for structural reform continent-wide.

Saeed Salahudeen, AJIF Fund Manager, said the event served as a platform for reform advocates to share experiences and strategies from countries including Angola, Senegal, Kenya, and Mali.

“We’re looking at the big picture—merit-based appointments, financial independence for the judiciary, real accountability frameworks. These are no longer ideals. They’re necessities,” Salahudeen said.