The Supreme Court has announced plans to celebrate its 150th anniversary of delivering justice since its establishment as the nation’s highest court under the Supreme Court Ordinance of 1876, which is recognized as the foundation of Ghana’s modern legal system.
The anniversary celebration will officially be launched on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the City Conference Centre of the University of Ghana, followed by a month-long series of activities.
The events will take place from July 1 to July 31, 2026, under the theme “Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present, and Defining the Future.”
The month-long celebration will feature lectures and symposiums conducted by various dignitaries, both local and international, as well as legal outreach programs, competitions, sporting events, the Sword-City anniversary project, a grand durbar to conclude the celebration, a dinner, and a Thanksgiving service.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, the Anniversary Planning Committee, Justice Richard Adjei Frimpong, reflected on the turbulent journey of the Court system.
He noted that over the decades, the Supreme Court has weathered political hostility, military interventions, constitutional suspensions, and public criticism. Despite these challenges, he added, the Court has endured and continues to strengthen its role as the guardian of the Constitution and protector of human rights.
Justice Frimpong emphasized that the Supreme Court has not only functioned as a judicial body but has also served as a key institution in national governance.
He highlighted several landmark rulings that demonstrate the Court’s commitment to democracy and the rule of law. For instance, under Article 181(5) of the Constitution, the Court ruled that international business agreements involving the state must be approved by Parliament, ensuring that the people’s representatives have the final say in such matters.
He also pointed out decisions that have expanded democratic freedoms, including the right of prisoners to vote and the recognition that citizens do not need a police permit to hold peaceful demonstrations.
According to Justice Frimpong, the theme for the Supreme Court’s 150th anniversary is both “fitting and appropriate.”
He stated that this occasion provides a moment to celebrate the historical significance of the Court, honor the vision and achievements of its predecessors, and acknowledge the institution’s invaluable contribution to Ghana’s social, political, and democratic development.
Source: Juliet Arhinful
