By Emelia B. Addae
Koforidua, July 01, GNA – Mr Francis Polley, President of the Eastern Regional Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has challenged judges and lawyers to uphold justice boldly and impartially in honour of three High Court judges murdered 44 years ago.
Speaking at a commemoration of the 44th anniversary of the killing of the judges, Mr Polley urged judicial officers and legal practitioners to draw inspiration from their legacy by dispensing justice without fear or favour.
The event was organized by the Eastern Region branch of the Ghana Bar Association in collaboration with the Judicial Service of Ghana.
The annual event honours the memory of the “Martyrs of the Rule of Law”; Mr Justice Fred Poku Sarkordee, Mrs Justice Cecilia Koranteng-Addow, and Mr Justice Kwadwo Agyei Agyepong.
The three high court judges, together with Major Sam Acquah, a retired Army Officer, were abducted and brutally murdered on June 30, 1982.
The act occurred at the Bundase Military Range in Accra, where they were soaked in petrol, and set on fire.
However, a heavy downpour that night quenched the fire, and their charred bodies were later discovered in a state of decomposition.
Mr Polley said their deaths remained a powerful reminder of the need to protect judicial independence, uphold the rule of law and defend Ghana’s democracy.
He noted that exhibiting such courage would demonstrate the core values expected of judges, magistrates, and lawyers to meet the high standards of their training.
Mrs Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, Eastern Regional Minister, noted that the tragic deaths of the victims shocked the nation and served as a grim reminder of the dangers of lawlessness and disregard for democratic values.
She, however, indicated that the tragedy birthed a renewed national commitment to safeguard the independence of the Judiciary, protect human rights, and strengthen democratic institutions.
“Today, Ghana stands as a beacon of democratic governance on the African Continent. This achievement has been made possible through the sacrifices of patriotic citizens, including the martyrs we honour today,” she stated.
Mrs Awatey assured the public of the government’s continuous commitment to supporting the administration of justice and protecting the independence of the judiciary.
In attendance were judges, lawyers, heads of security agencies, as well as teachers and students of Madonna Schools in Koforidua.
The remembrance service included paying of tribute, and a church service led by the Very Reverend Father Maxwell Alaaje, Priest of the Catholic Diocese of Koforidua.
GNA
Edited by D.I. Laary/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Emelia B. Addae
Email: [email protected]