Retired Supreme Court Justice William Atuguba has expressed partial support for President John Mahama’s new nominations of justices to the Supreme Court.

However, he stated that he does not fully endorse them, noting that people should not be appointed to the Supreme Court because they have been justices for a long period.

In an exclusive interview on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Wednesday, May 7, Justice Atuguba stated that while appointing new judges is necessary, the process lacked balance and inclusivity.

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He explained that the Supreme Court should have representation from diverse sectors, including the Ghana Bar Association, academia, and the Court of Appeal.

“I find a problem that you don’t have people from the Bar and academia. I want the Court to be balanced,” he said.

He further stressed that appointees should be individuals of high merit, experience, and integrity.

“If you want to build a sound country, you apply soundness to the decisions you are making in every important sector of the administration of the country. Nothing outside merit, integrity,” he said.

Justice Atuguba also urged those in authority to perform thorough background checks before confirming judicial appointments.

“In terms of competence, it’s easy to find. Their judgments. If it is not there, you just don't say you have been there for long,” he added.