The Tribunals Bill has been passed by Parliament and forwarded to the President for assent as part of efforts to strengthen Ghana’s justice delivery framework. The approval follows extensive parliamentary consideration of the proposed legislation, which seeks to restore tribunals as part of the country’s legal system.
The President of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama has specified that the establishment of tribunals and ongoing accountability measures would be guided by fairness, evidence and respect for due process. He said government decisions would not be influenced by political hostility or personal interests as institutions continue to perform their constitutional responsibilities.
Addressing the issue during the Resetting Ghana Citizens’ Engagement at Ho Technical University, President Mahama explained that the Constitutional Review process involved a detailed assessment of recommendations submitted by the Constitutional Review Committee. He noted that some proposals were accepted while others were reviewed based on their relevance and importance to national development.
According to him, the approved recommendations would be forwarded to the Constitutional Review Implementation Committee, which would develop a roadmap for executing the accepted proposals. He added that the process would require careful consideration to ensure constitutional changes serve the interests of citizens.
The President also spoke about accountability processes, stressing that investigations and prosecutions must be based on credible evidence available to state institutions. He explained that the justice system provides avenues for individuals to seek protection when allegations are unsupported or cases are pursued without sufficient grounds.
“We do not harbour any malice against any person. I do not take any enjoyment or pride in prosecuting people if they have done no wrong.”
His Excellency John Dramani Mahama
Furthermore, His Excellency Mahama stated that government agencies such as the Economic and Organised Crime Office and the Office of the Special Prosecutor conduct detailed assessments before cases reach the courts. He said investigations often require months of reviewing documents and gathering information to determine whether evidence meets the required standards.
The President emphasised that accountability should not be viewed as a political tool against opponents because the legal system exists to examine facts independently. He explained that where evidence is inadequate, cases must be discontinued or subjected to further investigation.
Additionally, President Mahama argued that the strength of Ghana’s democracy depends on confidence in institutions responsible for justice and governance. He urged citizens to trust established procedures while allowing the courts and investigative bodies to carry out their mandates.
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His Excellency John Dramani Mahama emphasised that accountability remains a central priority of his administration as government works to protect public resources and improve efficiency in state operations. He said public officials must follow established procedures and take collective decisions when dealing with complex matters of governance.
Addressing citizens during the Resetting Ghana Citizens’ Engagement at Ho Technical University, President Mahama explained that accountability applies to every person serving within government regardless of position or political affiliation. He stressed that any official found to have abused public trust would face the appropriate processes under the law.
According to him, the fight against misuse of state resources requires fairness and consistency because accountability should apply across all levels of public service. He urged ministers and government appointees to seek guidance whenever they encounter uncertainty in the execution of their duties.
The President said Cabinet discussions provide an opportunity for collective decision making because issues can be examined through the experience and judgement of government officials. He explained that such an approach also ensures that decisions taken in the public interest are properly considered.
“Accountability is still our number one priority. The sword does not cut only one way. And so I always caution my appointees to be very careful. Be sure you follow the procedure, don’t cut corners”
His Excellency John Dramani Mahama
Furthermore, His Excellency Mahama linked stronger accountability systems to reducing corruption and improving the management of national resources. He argued that responsible spending would allow government to direct more funds towards development projects that benefit citizens.
The President highlighted government’s investment in infrastructure projects as an example of how improved financial management could support national development. He stated that resources used for major initiatives were generated through domestic revenue and better prioritisation of public expenditure.
Additionally, President Mahama said Ghana’s ability to finance important projects depended on reducing waste and ensuring that available resources were used effectively. He referenced the Big Push programme, noting that significant allocations had been directed towards road reconstruction and other infrastructure priorities.
Discussing the importance of financial discipline, the President explained that careful management of public funds could reduce dependence on external borrowing. He said government would continue pursuing measures that encourage responsible spending and strengthen economic stability.
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