Prof. Frimpong Oppong and Bernasko Essah Vetted as Supreme Court
Judges
August 13, 2024
Justice Sophia Bernasko Essah a respected Justice of Appeal and Professor Richard Frimpong Oppong (an international ADR expert) appeared before the Appointments Committee of Parliament to address questions on their eligibility for the esteemed positions of Supreme Court Justices. Their vetting follows their nominations by the President in line with article 128 (1) of the Constitution 1992.
The nominees answered the Committee’s questions with poise and confidence, demonstrating deep understanding of the law and commitment to upholding the principles of justice. Their responses resonated with many on the Committee, earning them commendations for their legal insight and judicial temperament.
Mahama Ayariga challenges the constitutionality of new appointees to the Supreme Court
August 13, 2024
During the vetting of Supreme Court Nominees Justice Sophia Bernasko Essah and Professor Richard Frimpong Oppong, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, a Member of the Parliament’s Vetting Committee, raised an objection. Mr Ayariga, questioned the President’s authority to appoint more than nine Justices to the Supreme Court against the backdrop of Article 128 (1) of the Constitution, which stipulates that the Supreme Court shall consist of the Chief Justice and not fewer than nine other Justices.
The majority of the committee however argued in favor of the President’s discretion in the appointments, emphasizing the importance of judicial independence and the evolving demands on the judiciary. On the other hand, the minority members stressed the need to adhere strictly to the constitutional provision, warning against any action that might undermine the integrity of the Court.
The committee eventually agreed that the vetting process would proceed as scheduled, with the understanding that the constitutional concerns would be addressed separately in a legal forum if necessary.
High Court Reviews ‘Service Awards’ in Uganda’s Parliament
14th August, 2024.
A court in Uganda has ruled that, under the political question doctrine, the payment of service awards to Members of Parliament could not be deemed illegal.
This follows an Application to the court by a Ugandan citizen, Bwette Daniel challenging the decision by the Parliamentary Commission of Uganda to award monetary benefits termed “service awards” to certain members of the Ugandan’s Parliament.
Anti Competitive Conduct Restrained by a New York Court
16th August 2024
A Federal Judge in New York issued a preliminary injunction against a new sports streaming service (Venus Sports) from launching.
The new streaming service according to the Judge would “substantially lessen competition and restrain trade”. Venu Sports is the joint efforts of Three (3) mega companies namely Warner Bros Disney, and Fox corps to offer sports fan varieties of sports programmes.
In memoriam: Enoch Amponsah Esq — 2019 year group of the Ghana Bar — passed away. May he rest in peace.
Confidence Mawusi a third year student at UPSA School of law contributed to this article.
