Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Vice President of Ghana and the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) 2028 presidential flagbearer, has formally appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to withhold his assent from the recently passed Public Tribunals Bill, 2026. Bawumia emphasized the bill's far-reaching implications for Ghana's justice delivery system, judicial independence, and democratic governance. He called for a suspension of the process to allow for broad national consultations.
The former Vice President highlighted that such a fundamental reform should be built on national consensus, not solely on a parliamentary majority. He pointed out that Parliament waived the mandatory one-day interval between the consideration stage and the third reading, allowing the bill to pass on the same day. This move disregarded objections from the Minority and organized labor, which publicly opposed the legislation.
This development comes at a critical juncture for Ghana's legal and political landscape. The proposed reintroduction of tribunals into the judicial system raises questions about the separation of powers and the integrity of justice administration. Ghana's economic stability relies heavily on a predictable and fair legal framework, which could be undermined by perceived political interference in the judiciary.
Bawumia referenced the Trades Union Congress (TUC), which represents millions of Ghanaian workers. The TUC has called for the bill's withdrawal, warning it could become a tool for weaponizing justice delivery. This broad opposition from a significant labor body underscores the widespread concern beyond political affiliations. The TUC's stance adds considerable weight to the call for a more inclusive decision-making process.
Bawumia also noted that the President's own Constitution Review Committee, which reported in December, recommended removing Regional Tribunals from the Constitution. This was due to the High Court effectively handling their caseload. The fact that Parliament legislated in the opposite direction before the report's publication raises concerns about policy coherence and transparency. This inconsistency could erode public trust in governmental processes.
The former Vice President urged President Mahama to publish the Constitution Review Committee's report first. He stressed that the current bill allows panels including non-lawyers to preside over criminal matters. This provision evokes historical memories of past tribunal systems, which many Ghanaians associate with abuses of power. Strengthening existing courts with more judges, courtrooms, and digitized processes is a more appropriate solution to congestion, Bawumia argued.
Bawumia concluded his appeal by stating that justice belongs to the Ghanaian people, not to any government or party. He urged President Mahama to use his authority to convene genuine national engagement. This engagement should include the Ghana Bar Association, other lawyers' groups, organized labor, civil society, and political parties. Consulting the Judiciary itself, the institution that will implement any new system, is also crucial. This inclusive approach would ensure that any law reshaping the justice architecture rests on national consensus, not merely a parliamentary headcount. The decision on this bill will significantly impact Ghana's democratic credentials and investor confidence.