By Frank Kwame Abbor, GNA
Ho, June 30, GNA – The Volta and Oti Branch of the Ghana Bar Association has called on Ghanaians to uphold the rule of law and respect the country’s justice system as it commemorates Martyrs’ Day in honour of three murdered High Court judges and a retired army officer.
Mr Moses Ayine Asampoa, President of the Volta and Oti Bar, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that June 30 had been set aside annually to remember Justices Cecilia Koranteng-Addow, Frederick Poku Sarkodie and Kwadwo Agyei Agyepong, who were abducted and murdered alongside retired Major Sam Acquah on June 30, 1982.
He said the annual observance served as a reminder that such attacks on the judiciary and the administration of justice should never be repeated in Ghana.
“After the murder of these persons, the Bar deemed it necessary to remind Ghanaians that this should never happen again. That is why an annual Remembrance Day, Martyrs’ Day, was instituted to honour their memory,” Mr Asampoa said.
He urged the public not to regard judges and other law enforcement officers as enemies, stressing that they were public servants entrusted with enforcing the laws of the country.
“We advise the public not to see judges or law enforcement agents as enemies. We have employed them as Ghanaians to enforce the law. When a judge gives a decision and you are not happy, the best thing to do is to appeal against the decision and not take the life of that person,” he stated.
Mr. Asampoa also appealed to citizens to cooperate with the police and other security agencies, saying compliance with lawful procedures strengthened peace, justice and national stability.
“Even when the police come to arrest you, comply because they are performing duties on behalf of the people of Ghana.
Let us cooperate with law enforcement agencies and judges. We should never resort to violence simply because we disagree with a court decision,” he said.
He said this year’s Martyrs’ Day celebration would be held at the forecourt of the Ho High Court to honour the memory of the slain judges and retired military officer while promoting public awareness on the importance of protecting the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/George-Ramsey Benamba