CJ’s Dismissal of EC, OSP Petitions Strengthens Democratic Institutions — Inusah Fuseini

Former Tamale Central MP and legal practitioner Inusah Fuseini has praised the Chief Justice’s decision to dismiss petitions seeking the removal of the leadership of the Electoral Commission of Ghana and the Office of the Special Prosecutor, describing the move as a significant step in strengthening Ghana’s governance institutions.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile, Fuseini said the ruling shields officeholders from political pressure and shifting public sentiment, ensuring respect for institutional roles and maintaining national stability.

He characterised Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as an institutionalist committed to building strong governance systems and protecting the independence of key public offices.

The remarks follow the Chief Justice’s determination that no prima facie evidence existed to justify further investigation into petitions calling for the removal of Electoral Commission Chair Jean Mensa, her deputies, and Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng.

Despite supporting the ruling, Fuseini raised concerns about consistency in judicial practice. He noted that earlier precedents suggested breaches of statutory provisions, such as the Procurement Act, could meet the constitutional threshold under Article 144(1).

According to him, while the decision reinforces institutional independence, it may signal a shift from thresholds applied in previous rulings. He stressed that consistency in judicial decisions is essential for sustaining public confidence in the courts.

Fuseini concluded that the ruling balances institutional protection with constitutional principles and serves as a reminder of the judiciary’s central role in safeguarding Ghana’s democratic system. He added that under a different judicial interpretation, past removal decisions including that involving former EC Chair Charlotte Osei  might have turned out differently.