Have you Lost Your Sense to Stand There and Insult a Female Judge:Kwesi Pratt Fires at Afenyo-Markin

Veteran Ghanaian journalist Kwesi Pratt Jnr. has launched a strong criticism of Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin over remarks attributed to him following the conviction and sentencing of New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

Speaking during a discussion on Metro TV Ghana, Pratt expressed concern about comments questioning the High Court’s ruling and the conduct of the judge who presided over the case. He warned that suggesting the judgment was influenced by political or ethnic considerations could undermine public confidence in Ghana’s judiciary.

Pratt acknowledged that political leaders have the right to disagree with decisions delivered by the courts. However, he insisted that such disagreements must be expressed responsibly, particularly by individuals holding influential public positions. In his view, accusing a judge of political or tribal bias goes beyond criticising a particular judgment because it raises doubts about the credibility, fairness and independence of the entire judicial system.

The veteran journalist reportedly described Afenyo-Markin’s remarks as inappropriate and disrespectful towards the judge. He argued that anyone dissatisfied with a court decision should use the legal remedies available rather than make public statements that could weaken confidence in important state institutions.

He further suggested that the Minority Leader had allowed political interests to influence his response to the case. Pratt maintained that political officeholders have a responsibility to defend democratic institutions, even when decisions made by those institutions do not favour their political parties or allies.

According to him, respect for the judiciary is fundamental to protecting the rule of law and sustaining Ghana’s democratic system. He cautioned that public attacks capable of portraying judges as politically motivated could create unnecessary suspicion about the administration of justice.

Pratt’s position has attracted mixed reactions from the public. While some people agree that political leaders should exercise restraint and respect judicial independence, others believe Afenyo-Markin has the right to question court decisions and express concerns about how cases are handled.

Meanwhile, Wontumi’s lawyers are pursuing an appeal against his conviction and sentence. The development has continued to fuel discussions about judicial independence, political accountability and the responsibility of public officials to preserve confidence in Ghana’s justice system.

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