Social expectations, political financing threaten judicial integrity – Valentin Kwasi Mensah

Governance specialist Valentin Kwasi Mensah has warned that social expectations and political financing can undermine judicial impartiality in Ghana, arguing that threats to the independence of public officials extend beyond direct political interference.

Speaking at a JoyNews public lecture on the theme “Even Judges Must Eat – An Outside-In Provocation,” Mr Mensah said public officials often face demands from relatives, friends, former schoolmates, religious communities and political supporters that could influence their decisions.

“Requests for preferential treatment often arrive as appeals to loyalty or gratitude,” he said.

Mr Mensah cited his 2008 doctoral research at Oxford Brookes University, which examined cultural and institutional pressures through surveys and 35 interviews.

He referred to one participant, identified as PA2, who advocated limiting approaches to judges involving personal connections.

“He should be cut off from such things so that when he goes he reads the case and gives objective judgements,” the participant said.

Mr Mensah said the account illustrated concerns about pressure from personal relationships, but cautioned that it did not show all judges succumb to such demands.

He acknowledged the importance of family and community ties but warned that expectations around funerals, weddings, and other social events could put financial pressure on public officials, especially when lavish spending and reciprocal favours were expected.

Mr Mensah argued that improving salaries and working conditions was important but insufficient without clear ethical standards and effective enforcement.

He cited Articles 284 and 286 of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which address conflicts of interest and asset declarations respectively, stressing the need to ensure that public officials comply with applicable rules.

“Public office should never become a means of financing social status or rewarding personal networks,” he said.

Mr Mensah also raised concerns about political financing, warning that public institutions could become vulnerable to private interests when financial contributions to political parties are viewed as investments to be repaid through appointments, contracts or privileged access.

He said greater transparency in political financing, alongside credible oversight, could help address the risks.

“Transparent financing and credible scrutiny can help interrupt that cycle,” he said.

The JoyNews public lecture brought together stakeholders to discuss challenges facing Ghana’s judiciary and possible reforms to strengthen judicial independence, accountability and public confidence in the justice system.