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Ghana's Justice System Under Fire: Lawyer Accuses Government of Manipulation

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  Published in Politics and Government on Sunday, January 18th 2026 at 23:05 GMT
      Locale: GHANA

Accra, Ghana - January 19th, 2026 - A storm of controversy has erupted in Ghana following outspoken remarks by prominent lawyer Kwesi Botchway, who has accused the current government of manipulating the justice system for political gain. Botchway's allegations, made during a widely-followed panel discussion on Joy FM's Newsfile program, have ignited a national debate surrounding judicial independence and the rule of law.

The core of Botchway's criticism revolves around what he describes as a growing perception of "selective justice." He argues that the government appears to be consistently favoring certain individuals or legal outcomes while simultaneously disregarding established due process in other cases. This, he contends, is eroding public trust in the judiciary and undermining the fundamental principles upon which the Ghanaian legal system is built.

"This government has turned justice into a tool for convenience," Botchway stated bluntly during the Newsfile discussion. This concise statement, immediately picked up and amplified by various media outlets and social media platforms, has resonated strongly with a public increasingly concerned about the perceived politicization of legal proceedings.

While Botchway didn't specify particular cases during his initial remarks, sources close to him indicate his concerns are rooted in several recent legal developments. These reportedly include observations of expedited legal processes for individuals closely aligned with the government, coupled with perceived delays and obstacles faced by those perceived as opposition figures. Specific examples, which remain unsubstantiated but are circulating widely online, involve ongoing investigations into alleged financial improprieties within the opposition party, and the comparatively swift resolution of tax disputes facing companies with strong government ties.

The accusations come at a particularly sensitive time. Ghana, historically lauded for its relatively stable democracy and commitment to the rule of law in West Africa, has faced increasing scrutiny in recent years regarding governance and accountability. While the government has consistently denied any interference in judicial matters, Botchway's claims add significant weight to existing concerns voiced by civil society organizations and legal experts.

"The perception, rightly or wrongly, is that the government is able to influence outcomes based on political expediency," stated Dr. Ama Serwaa, a political analyst and contributor to the Newsfile program, following Botchway's initial comments. "This not only undermines the integrity of the judiciary but also has a chilling effect on citizens who may be hesitant to pursue legal recourse if they believe the system is biased."

The government has responded to Botchway's accusations with a measured defense. A spokesperson for the Attorney General's office released a statement emphasizing the judiciary's independence and assuring the public that the government respects the rule of law. They reiterated that all legal proceedings are conducted fairly and impartially, and accused Botchway of making reckless statements without providing concrete evidence. "Mr. Botchway's allegations are baseless and intended to sow discord," the statement read.

However, the damage has arguably already been done. Botchway's comments have spurred calls for greater transparency and accountability within the judiciary, and prompted a renewed examination of mechanisms to safeguard judicial independence. The Ghana Bar Association has announced plans to hold an emergency meeting to discuss the concerns raised and explore potential solutions. Several opposition parties have seized on the opportunity to further criticize the government's handling of legal matters, escalating the political tensions surrounding the issue.

The unfolding situation highlights a critical challenge for Ghana: maintaining the integrity and impartiality of its judicial system in the face of increasing political pressure. Whether Botchway's allegations will lead to tangible reforms remains to be seen, but the debate itself underscores the vital importance of a truly independent judiciary for a thriving democracy. The coming weeks are likely to be crucial in determining the future of judicial oversight and public trust in the Ghanaian legal system.