Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has defended her appointment to Ghana’s 9th Council of State, stating that her selection aligns with constitutional provisions.
Now serving as one of the 31 members of the advisory body led by former Speaker of Parliament Edward Doe Adjaho, Justice Akuffo clarified that she is not representing the Judiciary but is serving in her capacity as a former Chief Justice.
Speaking to journalists after the swearing-in ceremony in Accra on February 18, she emphasized her eligibility for the role. “I am a former Chief Justice. Am I not? Do I or do I not qualify?” she asked rhetorically.
She pointed out that the Council of State has a designated seat for a former Chief Justice, making her appointment both anticipated and justified. “Many people actually expected me to be selected,” she remarked.
Justice Akuffo assured that she would not merely endorse the President’s decisions but would serve with integrity and independence. “The Council of State is meant to advise the President. I am not going to be singing his master’s voice. An adviser does not parrot,” she asserted.
She stressed that true advisory roles demand honesty and commitment to the nation’s best interests. “An adviser speaks with honesty, considering not just the individual being advised but the function they serve,” she explained.
Beyond her judicial experience, Justice Akuffo has been an outspoken advocate for governance and financial accountability. Last year, she actively pushed for the payment of bondholders, urging the government to fulfill its financial commitments.
Following former President Mahama’s directive to the Finance Minister to ensure payments to bondholders, including herself, she commended the decision. “The President’s action was in perfect order and in accordance with the law,” she said. “My stance was never about personal gain but about the principle that the state must honor its contractual obligations.”
When asked if she would return to the streets should payments stall again, she responded: “I don’t have a crystal ball, but I don’t bow to wrongdoing. Now that I am in an advisory role, I trust that if we provide sound advice, it will be heeded.”
With her extensive legal expertise and strong advocacy background, Sophia Akuffo’s presence on the Council of State is expected to bring a firm and independent voice, particularly on legal and constitutional matters.
