Respect the courts – Ghana Law Society to Afenyo-Markin

The Ghana Law Society has cautioned Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin to respect the courts following remarks it says threaten judicial independence.

The statement, issued on Monday, April 20, 2026, and signed by Director of Communications Apanga Lamtiig Abugri Esq, criticised what it described as repeated attacks on members of the judiciary and called for immediate corrective action.

The Society stressed that the judiciary must be protected from undue pressure, noting that “the courts are not extensions of political power; they are arbiters of justice.”

It warned that public commentary targeting judges in a hostile tone undermines confidence in the legal system.

It further urged restraint, stating that “there is a clear and important distinction between reasoned critique and language that can reasonably be interpreted as intimidation.”

The Society added that statements perceived as threats “pose a significant risk to the integrity and independence of the justice system.”

Calling for accountability, the Ghana Law Society said it “unequivocally calls on Mr. Afenyo-Markin to immediately retract these unsavoury comments and render an unqualified apology.”

It cautioned that failure to do so would compel it to take action before the General Legal Council.

The Society also highlighted the obligations of legal practitioners, warning that remarks suggesting judges “will be on their own” undermine the security required for them to discharge their duties without fear or favour.

Background to the caution follows recent comments by Mr. Afenyo-Markin urging judges to remain independent, resist political influence, and avoid partisan considerations in their rulings.

He advised them to rely strictly on legal principles rather than “common sense” that could align with political expectations.

His remarks came after he criticised a Circuit Court judge for remanding a New Patriotic Party supporter, describing the decision as a “big shame” and alleging the existence of an “agenda court.”

He also warned judges to remain neutral and not be influenced by potential future political appointments, particularly under a possible National Democratic Congress administration. In April 2026, he further urged members of the bench to “apply your legal brain” and steer clear of politics.

The Ghana Law Society maintained that while judicial decisions may be subject to scrutiny, attacks that appear to intimidate or delegitimise the courts risk weakening public trust in Ghana’s democratic institutions.