- Justice William Atuguba called on politicians to prioritise Ghana’s interests over partisan and personal interests.
- He spoke at the 20th memorial lecture for former Speaker Justice Daniel Francis Annan in Accra.
- The retired judge said parliamentary debate should focus on constructive solutions and consensus-building.
Retired Supreme Court Justice William Atuguba has urged Ghanaian politicians to place the country’s interests ahead of party loyalty and personal political ambition.
Speaking at the 20th memorial lecture for the late Justice Daniel Francis Annan in Accra, Justice Atuguba said political leaders should pursue policies and actions that serve Ghanaians rather than partisan or individual interests. Justice Annan was the first Speaker of Parliament under the Fourth Republic.
Justice Atuguba said he was concerned that political parties appeared increasingly focused on winning power, a trend he said had contributed to an unhealthy democratic culture. He called for honesty, fairness, integrity and principled leadership in public life.
Call for a stronger parliamentary culture
The retired judge said some Members of Parliament appeared to demonstrate greater allegiance to their parties and the President than to the welfare of citizens. While acknowledging that many politicians remained committed to public service, he said Parliament should more consistently advance the interests of Ghanaians.
He described parliamentary exchanges as too often resembling a political contest, with opponents seeking electoral advantage rather than working together on practical responses to national challenges.
Justice Atuguba said constructive engagement, consensus-building and mutual respect were needed if democratic governance was to deliver sustainable national development. He maintained that national priorities should take precedence over partisan considerations.
Legacy of Justice Annan
Justice Atuguba said his remarks were intended to encourage reflection on the direction of Ghana’s democracy, rather than to disparage politicians. He also said there remained reason for optimism because some public officials continued to demonstrate the values associated with Justice Annan’s career.
He urged present and future political leaders to emulate the former Speaker’s example of integrity, fairness and commitment to democratic development.
