In a heated response to recent criticisms, Justin Kodua Frimpong, General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), called out the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for what he claims is an attempt to undermine Ghana’s Supreme Court and Electoral Commission (EC).
Speaking candidly on Kumasi-based Pure FM, monitored by MyNewsGh.com, the lawyer urged the opposition to “understand the law and the constitution” before making what he described as “baseless and provocative statements.”
Kodua’s remarks come amid growing tensions, as the NDC has frequently criticized the neutrality of the judiciary, suggesting that Supreme Court judges lean in favor of the ruling party due to political appointments. Kodua, however, was quick to dismiss this notion, asserting, “It’s misleading to say that the judges are aligned with the NPP. Look at the case involving Ato Forson—an NDC member. The judges found him not guilty in the ambulance case. Is that what a biased court would do?”
The ambulance case, which gained national attention, involved Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, a key figure in the NDC, who was acquitted of charges related to alleged procurement irregularities. Kodua pointed to this outcome as evidence that the judiciary does not act with partiality. “People need to recognize that the judiciary isn’t a puppet of the ruling party,” he added.
Kodua also expressed serious concerns about the NDC’s attacks on the Electoral Commission, suggesting that their accusations are intended to “discredit” the institution ahead of the upcoming elections. He referenced a recent IPAC (Inter-Party Advisory Committee) meeting, which was live-streamed to enhance transparency. “During the live IPAC meeting, the EC provided clarifications and addressed concerns, but when it came time for the NDC to present their issues, they had nothing to say,” he remarked, implying that their critiques lack substance.
The NPP General Secretary also seized the chance to promote transparency, proposing a live broadcast of all public interest cases. He believes that this approach would hold all parties accountable and reassure Ghanaians about the integrity of the judiciary. “If they have genuine concerns, let’s air these cases. Let the people see for themselves,” Kodua stated.
In closing, he emphasized the importance of respecting national institutions and urged the NDC to “uphold democratic values” rather than sowing doubt about Ghana’s legal and electoral systems. “These baseless attacks only serve to erode trust,” he concluded, reaffirming his belief in the independence of both the Supreme Court and the Electoral Commission.
