Constitutional Reform: Prof. Appiagyei-Atua Demands Complete Removal of President from Judicial Appointments

Professor Kwadwo Appiagyei-Atua, a prominent lecturer at the University of Ghana School of Law, has called for complete constitutional de-linking of the Executive from the Judiciary, asserting that the President should have no role in appointing judges. Speaking at a high-profile public lecture in Accra on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, the legal academic argued that stripping the president of appointment powers is crucial to safeguarding judicial independence and restoring deteriorating public trust in the country's justice system.

During his presentation titled “Even Judges Must Eat: An Outside-in Provocation,” organized by JoyNews and the Amalgam of Professionals, Prof. Appiagyei-Atua warned that current constitutional arrangements leave the judiciary vulnerable to executive interference. He argued that appointments should instead be handled by neutral bodies prioritizing merit over political influence.

Describing the current political climate as a "Ponzi democracy," he noted that public trust erodes when accountability institutions appear compromised. He emphasized the need to curb sweeping presidential powers to protect democratic governance.

The lecture also highlighted the need for better working conditions and security of tenure to empower judges to deliver fearless verdicts. Critics and legal experts similarly advocate for reviewing provisions like Article 144 of the 1992 Constitution to reduce executive influence over judicial leadership.

Ultimately, the address has reignited national discussions on constitutional reform and transparency, leaving civil groups pushing for systemic change to restore public confidence in the judiciary.