A Supreme Court Justice, Yonny Kulendi, has issued a direct caution to lawyers and judicial officers. He warned them against seeking appointments to the bench for financial gain, stressing that judging is a call to service. Justice Kulendi’s remarks clearly indicated that the judicial office is not a path to personal enrichment.
Justice Kulendi explained that individuals pursuing judicial positions with the intent to accumulate wealth risk compromising the integrity and independence of Ghana’s judiciary. He emphasized that the role of a judge demands dedication to justice, national service, and accountability. He stated that pecuniary fortunes should not be the main driver for judicial aspirations.
This caution from a Supreme Court Justice fits into ongoing discussions about public trust and accountability within Ghana’s institutions. Data from Afrobarometer’s 2022 survey, for example, revealed that only 34% of Ghanaians trust the courts and judicial system “somewhat” or “a lot”. This figure highlights public concerns about potential corruption and integrity within the judiciary. Justice Kulendi's statement directly addresses a key perception influencing such trust levels.
Justice Kulendi made his comments during an interview on Citi FM on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. He spoke as part of activities marking the 150th anniversary of Ghana’s Supreme Court. He openly challenged the notion that becoming a judge should be an aspiration for every lawyer for opportunistic reasons. Justice Kulendi has served as a Justice of the Supreme Court since May 2020.
The implications of Justice Kulendi's strong words are significant for judicial appointments and public perception. His statement suggests a renewed focus on ethical standards and a possible push for greater scrutiny in judicial selections. Decision-makers and legal professionals will likely consider these remarks as the judiciary continues its efforts to rebuild public confidence. The judiciary's ability to maintain its independence and integrity relies heavily on the ethical conduct of its members.
A strong and independent judiciary is critical for building a fair and stable society, Justice Kulendi highlighted. He described the opportunity to serve as a judge as a profound responsibility. He further noted that judicial office requires humility and a strong sense of duty. Judges must always be guided by their conscience, the law, and their oath to uphold justice. An unjust society, he added, is not a society worth living in.