Ghana’s Supreme Court nominee, Justice George Kingsley Koomson, has assured that his research work on LGBTQ+ issues will not compromise his ability to uphold the country’s anti-LGBTQ+ laws if confirmed as a judge. His remarks came during his vetting process, where concerns were raised about potential biases due to his academic interests.
Justice Koomson, currently serving as an Appeals Court judge, sought to dispel any doubts regarding his commitment to enforcing Ghana’s legal framework, which criminalizes same-sex relationships. He emphasized that his academic research, which has touched on various aspects of LGBTQ+ rights, was purely scholarly and would not influence his judicial decisions.
In Ghana, the subject of LGBTQ+ rights is highly sensitive, with significant portions of the population opposing any form of legalization or acceptance of these communities. The country’s laws currently reflect these sentiments, criminalizing homosexual acts and, in recent years, leading to a heightened public discourse on the matter.
During the vetting, Justice Koomson reiterated his respect for Ghana’s legal system and constitution, asserting that his primary duty as a judge would be to interpret and apply the law without prejudice. He noted that, while his research provides a broader understanding of global legal trends and human rights issues, it does not indicate any personal endorsement of practices or views that contravene Ghanaian law.
The nominee’s reassurances are particularly relevant given the ongoing debate in Ghana about the potential introduction of even stricter anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. Many Ghanaians, including influential religious and cultural leaders, have expressed strong support for such measures, viewing them as necessary to preserve the country’s moral and cultural values.
Justice Koomson also highlighted the importance of impartiality in the judiciary, stating that a judge’s personal beliefs or academic background should never interfere with their legal responsibilities. He expressed his commitment to upholding the rule of law in Ghana, ensuring that all citizens receive fair treatment under the law, regardless of the issue at hand.
His statements appear to have been well-received by members of the vetting committee, who had initially expressed concerns about his impartiality. By emphasizing the distinction between his academic pursuits and his judicial duties, Justice Koomson sought to reassure both the committee and the broader public that his work as a judge would remain consistent with Ghana’s legal standards.
As the vetting process continues, Justice Koomson’s potential confirmation to the Supreme Court is being closely watched, particularly by those on both sides of the LGBTQ+ debate. His responses during the vetting suggest that, if confirmed, he intends to navigate the complex and often contentious issues surrounding LGBTQ+ rights with a firm commitment to the law as it currently stands.
The nominee’s emphasis on the rule of law and judicial impartiality underscores the critical role of the judiciary in maintaining public confidence in the legal system, especially in areas of deep social division. As Ghana grapples with evolving social issues, the judiciary’s role in interpreting and upholding the law remains paramount.
Source: ghanaweb.com
