Supreme Court Announces President Akufo-Addo’s Orders for Domelovo’s Forced Leave Unconstitutional
In a groundbreaking decision that reverberates throughout Ghana, the Supreme Court has ruled that President Akufo-Addo’s order for Dumelovo’s Forced Leave unconstitutional.
The case goes back to 2020, with far-reaching implications for the protection of institutional independence and the adherence to constitutional principles in the country’s governance-CSO’S.
The controversy began when Domelovo was compelled by the presidency to take 169 working days of accumulated leave.
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The Centre for Democratic Development (CDD) and eight other Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) fiercely opposed this action since they saw it as a direct attack on the independence of the Auditor General’s office.
They filed a case in October 2020, asking the Supreme Court to declare the President’s conduct null and unlawful because it violated the Constitution.
Many human rights organizations within the country and CSO made appeals and pleas to reconsider the directive but the President stood firm by his decisions leading to a protracted legal battle that spanned two years. The CSOs argued that the legal basis for the directive was “fatally misplaced,” raising concerns about the potential erosion of the constitutional separation of powers.
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After years of legal battle, the Supreme Court issued its long-awaited decision in favor of the CSOs. The court upheld their plea, affirming that the President’s directive violated the constitution and encroached upon the independence of the Auditor General’s office. This ruling serves as a resounding victory for the CSOs and strengthens the safeguards against undue interference in the functioning of vital oversight institutions.
The significance of this judgment cannot be overstated. It underscores the importance of upholding institutional independence and the rule of law in Ghana’s democratic framework. The court’s decision firmly establishes the principle that no office or individual, regardless of their position, can act in contravention of the Constitution and impede the effective functioning of independent oversight bodies.
The ramifications of this ruling extend beyond the specific case of Daniel Domelovo and President Akufo-Addo. It serves as a reminder that respect for constitutional principles, transparency, and accountability are fundamental to the healthy functioning of a democracy. It strengthens public trust in the country’s governance systems and reinvigorates efforts to combat corruption and promote good governance.
The decision of the highest court of the land reaffirms unbiased commitment to upholding the rule of law and the protection of institutional independence.
We will therefore keep you updated on further updates on the story.