Lack of confidence in judiciary breeds conflict” – Prof. Stephen Adei warns as concerns deepen over judicial independence

Renowned economist and former NDPC Chairman, Prof. Stephen Adei, has issued a strong warning over what he describes as the growing politicisation of Ghana’s judiciary, cautioning that continued erosion of judicial independence could trigger future instability.

Speaking on JoyNews on Wednesday, May 7, Prof. Adei praised President Mahama’s 120-day achievements but said they are overshadowed by “serious dangers” threatening the nation’s democratic fabric.

He expressed deep concern over the alleged politically motivated removal of the Chief Justice and the appointment of seven new Supreme Court justices perceived to be aligned with the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).

“If you undermine the judiciary, all of us will pay a very heavy price,” he warned, citing historical patterns where public distrust in the judiciary preceded conflict in other nations.

Prof. Adei emphasized that safeguarding the judiciary’s impartiality is critical to national peace, adding, “In most countries, people lose confidence in the judicial system before conflict begins.”

As President Mahama prepares to address the nation on his 120-day social contract, the warnings cast a serious tone over an otherwise celebrated milestone.