The Citizens for Justice and Democracy (CJD) has gathered with the deepest regret the press release from the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) signed by Mr.Anthony Forson Jnr. CJD wishes to express its disgust and disappointment at the latest conduct of the GBA and its ilk. The double standard approach of the GBA is one too many and the hypocrisy it exhibits could only be shunned by all well meaning Ghanaians. The GBA must stand up to the task of upholding the principle of fairness, equity ,justice and the rule of law.
It is the considered view of the CJD that the only consistent behaviour of the GBA is its inconsistency in upholding the principles of protection and preservation of Fundamental Human Rights and Freedom,Unity and Stability of the nation and Citizens as enshrined copiously in the 1992 Constitution. The CJD, is, however, dazed at the brazen effrontery of the GBA to dictate to Ghanaians who or what to criticise or not contrary to Article 21 (1) (a) (b) of the 1992 Constitution. We believe such an action by GBA is an afront to the conscience and intelligence of the Ghanaian,and an indictment upon itself.
CJD believes it is in the interest of the GBA to purge itself of all the perceptions of bias that is fast gaining root in the minds of Ghanaians and begin to operate with a true and absolute sense of neutrality and objectivity in other to assuage the concerns of the worrying mass. We are of the firm conviction that judges as well as thier judgements are subject to public scruitiny and criticism. Is the GBA now promoting the criminalisation of the freedom of expression? Is the question most Ghanaians are asking.
CJD can recollect with clarity the position assumed a couple of years ago by the GBA not to meddle in matters of political trials when for instance the trial of Tsatsu Tsikata attracted the media spotlight and is therefore appalled by the sudden turn of events which could best be described as the height of hypocrisy and lack of principle on the part of GBA. This attitude of the GBA will only deepen the perception of discrimination the greater populace of the nation have about them.
CJD is by this release condeming in no uncertain terms the attitude, conduct, actions and the satnce of the GBA especially when thier criticism is of no locus. The GBA should be ashamed of it self for going against its own set rules, principles, guidlines and virtues. CJD is of the firm opinion that if the actions of the GBA continous on this path , their existence will become highly irrelevant and unmeritorious under our current democractic dispensation and very soon the people of Ghana will rise up against any such group of opressors.
The Citizens for Justice and Democracy (CJD) will like to remind all Ghanaians that it stands for a just society and democratic governace, and will not relent in fighting tirelessly to protect our God given inalienable right to freedom of expression and resist any attempt to stampede it.
God Bless our Homeland Ghana!!
Long live Freedom and Justice!!
Long Live CJD !!
ALI Dawud
Spokesperon/Communication Director
0244-655-499
