The historic Manhyia Palace in Kumasi played host to the second public lecture organized by the Judicial Service of Ghana on Thursday, July 16, 2026, as part of the year-long activities marking the 150th Anniversary of the Supreme Court of Ghana.
The event brought together eminent personalities from the judiciary, traditional leadership, government, academia, and other sectors to reflect on the evolution of Ghana’s justice system and the enduring role of the Supreme Court in safeguarding the rule of law and constitutional democracy.
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour, reaffirming the close relationship between Ghana’s traditional institutions and the country’s judicial system. His presence underscored the importance of the anniversary celebrations and the need to preserve the principles of justice, fairness, and national unity.
The keynote lecture was delivered by the Director of the Manhyia Palace Museum, Mr. Ivor Agyeman-Duah, a respected author, historian, and governance expert. In his address, he reflected on the historical development of Ghana’s legal and judicial institutions, highlighting the significant contributions of the Supreme Court over the past 150 years in defending constitutional governance, protecting the rights of citizens, and strengthening democratic institutions.
The lecture also explored the role of traditional leadership in the administration of justice and the importance of fostering stronger collaboration between customary institutions and the formal judicial system in promoting peace, social cohesion, and national development.
The ceremony attracted several distinguished guests, including the Chief Justice of Ghana, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, who joined members of the judiciary to commemorate the milestone. Also in attendance was the President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahohuo Yaw Gyebi II, whose participation highlighted the continued partnership between traditional authorities and the Judicial Service.
Justice Agyei Frimpong, Chairman of the Planning Committee for the Supreme Court’s 150th Anniversary celebrations, was also present alongside Justices from both the Superior Courts and Lower Courts, judges, magistrates, legal practitioners, and other officials of the Judicial Service. Representing the government was the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, together with other invited dignitaries.
The second public lecture forms part of a broader series of commemorative activities being organized by the Judicial Service to celebrate 150 years of the Supreme Court’s existence. The anniversary seeks not only to honour the institution’s rich history but also to reflect on its achievements, acknowledge the sacrifices of past judicial leaders, and chart a path for a more efficient, independent, and accessible justice system.
As Ghana continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, the Supreme Court’s 150th Anniversary serves as a reminder of the critical role the judiciary plays in upholding the Constitution, protecting fundamental human rights, ensuring accountability, and maintaining public confidence in the administration of justice.
The successful event at Manhyia Palace further demonstrated the importance of dialogue between the judiciary, traditional authorities, and the wider public in advancing justice, good governance, and national development.
Story by: Ernest Frimpong (0247220948) | Follow our social media handles @uktvghana | DM us for Ads on our website or any of our socials
