By Paschal Norbert
ACCRA, JULY 24, 2025 (CISA)- Amid growing national tensions over violent political confrontations and the controversial suspension of Ghana’s Chief Justice, the Catholic Bishops have condemned the recent incidents , warning that such developments threaten the country’s democratic integrity and judicial independence.
In the statement dated July 22, the bishops urged all citizens and leaders to rise above partisanship and defend the country’s fragile democratic gains.
“True democracy transcends the periodic casting of votes,” the bishops stated, adding that it “embodies a just social order that respects the rule of law, upholds the intrinsic dignity of every human person, and guarantees citizens the right to participate meaningfully in shaping our national destiny.”
The bishops expressed particular concern over the recent outbreak of electoral violence in Ablekuma North Constituency, describing it as a direct assault on the foundations of Ghana’s democracy.
“We unequivocally condemn all forms of electoral violence, especially the brutalization of citizens, including journalists,” the statement read, noting “Such acts constitute a gross violation of human dignity and betray the very foundations upon which our democracy stands.”
Calling on the state to take swift and transparent action, the prelates emphasized that impunity fuels distrust and breeds lawlessness. They urged the government to fully investigate all incidents of electoral violence and to act on the recommendations of past commissions of inquiry.
“Impunity corrodes public trust and fosters a culture of lawlessness,” the bishops warned, insisting that lessons from previous electoral cycles must now be translated into real reform.
The bishops also called upon political actors to eschew violence and inflammatory rhetoric, reminding them that elections are meant to be contests of ideas, not power struggles.
“We urge political parties and their supporters to exercise maximum restraint and prioritize national peace above partisan advantage,” they said.
They further stressed the need for the Electoral Commission to intensify stakeholder engagement and for security services to act with professionalism and impartiality, warning that trust in public institutions is quickly eroded when perceived bias enters the fray.
Equally alarming for the bishops is the suspension of the Chief Justice, a development they believe could undermine public trust in the judicial system if not handled with absolute transparency and respect for constitutional norms.
“Justice is the indispensable cornerstone of national cohesion; without it, grievances fester and violence finds fertile ground,” the bishops cautioned.
While affirming the principle of due process, the GCBC was emphatic: “The removal of a sitting Chief Justice is a matter of profound national significance. This process must be scrupulously guided by constitutional principles, absolute procedural fairness, and a clear respect for the doctrine of the separation of powers.”
The bishops warned against setting dangerous precedents that could place the judiciary “at the mercy of the executive,” saying such actions risk irreparably eroding public trust in the courts, which are often the last hope for ordinary citizens seeking justice.
Referencing the recent National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, convened by the President, the bishops welcomed the spiritual moment and called for it to translate into concrete national renewal: “May this now inspire a deeper, sustained national commitment to unity, reconciliation, and lasting peace.”
