Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has firmly asserted her independence following her appointment to Ghana’s 9th Council of State, emphasising that she will not be a mere mouthpiece for the President.

Speaking after the swearing-in ceremony in Accra on Tuesday, February 18, Justice Akuffo made it clear that her advisory role would be based on honesty and principle, rather than blind loyalty.

"I am not going to be singing his master’s voice, so to speak. An adviser does not parrot," she declared.

She further explained that true advisory roles demand integrity and a commitment to national interest rather than rubber-stamping executive decisions.

"An adviser speaks with honesty. An adviser looks to the best interest not only of the person they are advising but also of the function that person serves," she stressed.

Justice Akuffo dismissed criticisms surrounding her appointment, clarifying that her selection aligns with constitutional provisions.

"I am a former Chief Justice. Am I not? Do I or do I not qualify?" she quizzed rhetorically.

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She stressed that a seat on the Council of State is designated for a former Chief Justice, making her appointment both expected and justified.

"Many people actually expected me to be selected," she remarked.

Beyond her judicial background, Justice Akuffo has been vocal on financial accountability and governance issues. She was among those who demanded the government fulfill its financial obligations to bondholders last year, a stance she maintains was about principle, not personal gain.

Following President Mahama’s directive to the Finance Minister to ensure payments to bondholders, including herself, she welcomed the decision, stating:

"The President’s action was in perfect order and in accordance with the law. My stand was not about my pocket; it was about the principle that when the state makes a promise through a contract, it must honour it."

When asked whether she would take to the streets again if payments stalled, she remained resolute:

"I don’t have a crystal ball, but I’m not someone who bows to wrongness. Now that I’m in an advisory position, I trust that if we provide good advice, it will be taken."

With her legal expertise and strong advocacy background, Sophia Akuffo’s presence on the Council of State is expected to bring a firm and independent perspective, particularly on legal and constitutional matters.