Ghanatodayonline.com News, Politics, Health, Education & More
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo made a powerful address today at the Law House’s commissioning, emphasizing the basic value of the rule of law as the best safeguard for individual liberty.
Even in the face of criticism, he made it clear in his speech that he was committed to the ideas of natural justice and due process.
Reflecting on recent accusations from former President John Mahama, who labeled him a “clearing agent” for allegedly shielding corrupt officials, President Akufo-Addo firmly stated, “I will not set aside due process and the rules of natural justice on the altar of the fight against corruption, no matter how much opprobrium this incurs for me.” His words underscored a dedication to uphold the law above political expediency.
The President used a moving tale from Ghanaian history that his father, former Chief Justice Edward Akufo-Addo, had told him to exemplify his argument.
The story was about Tawia Adamafio, who in 1961 was instrumental in setting up a Special Criminal Court to try cases involving political and national offenses more quickly while President Kwame Nkrumah was in office. This court was viewed as a means of quickly addressing threats to national security and establishing authority.
Paradoxically, in 1963, Adamafio was among the first defendants in this court, charged with treason in relation to the bombing of Kulungungu, which was directed on President Nkrumah. The justices carefully considered the evidence and declared Adamafio and his co-accused innocent, despite the fact that the court was made up of judges that Nkrumah had nominated, which appeared to seal Adamafio’s destiny.
Adamafio met Edward Akufo-Addo to thank him after being freed during the 1966 coup that brought an end to the First Republic. He said he was grateful that the court upheld the statute, saying it had saved his life. According to President Akufo-Addo, Edward Akufo-Addo did not bring up Adamafio’s previous plea that the court administer justice rather than law.
This episode, the President emphasized, exemplifies how the rule of law stands as the best protection of individual liberty, regardless of the political climate.
In concluding his speech, President Akufo-Addo reinforced the idea that the rule of law is a steadfast guardian of freedom. “The rule of law is the best protection of individual liberty in good times and in bad times,” he declared, highlighting its enduring relevance and necessity.
The President’s remarks serve as a powerful reminder of the critical role that law and justice play in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of individuals, ensuring that even in times of political turmoil, fairness and justice prevail.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
