Kwaku Ansa-Asare, the former Director of Legal Education, has stated that Ghana’s Council of State is “100% partisan.” This strong political alignment prevents members from expressing independent opinions freely. His remarks follow a discussion on recent high-profile resignations from the advisory body, including that of former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo.
Ansa-Asare believes the Council's partisan structure contributes to members' discomfort, leading to their departure. He specifically suggested that this environment might have influenced former Chief Justice Georgina Wood's decision not to remain a member. He emphasized that a body advising the President must foster an atmosphere where diverse views are openly shared.
This criticism comes at a time when public trust in state institutions is a recurring theme in Ghana's political discourse. Data from Afrobarometer reports often highlight concerns about institutional independence and governmental transparency. This perception of partisanship within a key advisory body could further erode public confidence in governance structures.
Speaking on JoyNews' Newsfile on Saturday, Ansa-Asare said, "If you look at the composition of the Council of State, it's 100 per cent partisan." He added, "So, you will not feel free. You will not have an independent mind." He argued that this environment makes it difficult for members to exercise their freedom of speech, choice, and expression.
The implications of a deeply partisan Council of State are significant for Ghana's governance. Ansa-Asare called for immediate reforms to include a wider range of political and ideological perspectives. He warned that without change, members on opposing political sides would continue to leave, which he described as "unfortunate and regrettable." Such resignations deprive the President of valuable, diverse counsel. Future appointments to the Council will be closely watched to see if they address these concerns about partisanship and independence. The political establishment will need to consider these criticisms carefully to strengthen democratic institutions.
Ansa-Asare also addressed the succession for the Council of State, dismissing former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo as a candidate due to her removal from office. He argued that her removal constitutionally disqualifies her from being considered a former Chief Justice for such purposes. He warned against attempts to redefine this constitutional position, calling it potentially absurd.
He further predicted that any nomination of former Chief Justice Kwasi Anin-Yeboah would face strong opposition from the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Ansa-Asare explained that appointing someone perceived as politically aligned with the opposition would create difficulties for President John Mahama. He stressed that a President must consider political realities and seek counsel from parties like the NDC when making such sensitive appointments. This complex political calculus underscores the challenges in depoliticizing key state advisory roles.