Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has urged Ghanaians to be moderate in their criticism of key state institutions.
In an interaction with selected journalists, the former President stressed the importance of showing respect for Ghana’s democratic institutions. Mr. Kuffuor stressed that while it was natural to have differing views on judicial decisions, it was essential to maintain a respectful tone.
“We talk of checks and balances. Some also say separation of powers, and I agree with that. Even though we are in different institutions, if yours is not going well, I should be able to tell you how to prevent excesses. However, I urge caution and thoughtfulness regarding some of the raised criticisms,” he stated.
“In the Fourth Republic, the Constitution is supreme, and the same constitution empowers the Supreme Court with interpretative authority. Once the court delivers a ruling, it must be respected.”
“But it is important to note that the court does not actively seek cases; rather, individuals bring matters before it,” he stated.
Mr. Kuffuor On Election 2024
Speaking on the upcoming elections, Mr. Kufuor appealed to Ghanaians to rally behind whoever wins the presidential election on December 7. He said elections were about ideas and policies and encouraged citizens to exercise their right to vote peacefully.
“We must allow the 1992 Republican Constitution to work peacefully.” He added, “We must recognize that the true power belongs to the people. Let us all go and exercise our franchise peacefully and wait for another opportunity for the next four years to do so again.”
Mr. Kuffuor On Developmental Projects
Former President Kufuor stressed the need for continuity in developmental projects initiated by previous administrations.
He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the continuity in governance and the contributions of past governments to the nation’s progress. Mr. Kufuor criticized the tendency of successive governments to claim exclusive credit for national achievements. This, he said, is while often ignoring the foundations laid by their predecessors.
He insisted that recognizing the efforts of past administrations was crucial for fostering unity and advancing Ghana’s development. He urged political leaders to adopt a more collaborative mindset, acknowledging that governance was a continuous process.
Mr. Kufuor warned that failing to recognize the contributions of previous governments could hinder the country’s overall progress, as it encouraged a divisive political culture.
He called for a spirit of cooperation and a focus on building on the achievements of past administrations to ensure sustained growth and stability for Ghana.
