Former Chief Justice Explains Why She Joined Protest Against Akufo-Addo Government

Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has opened up about her decision to take part in a public protest against the administration of former President Nana Akufo-Addo. Her remarks came as she reflected on why she joined the 2023 demonstration against the controversial Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP), a policy introduced under the Akufo-Addo government.

Speaking in an interview, Akuffo said she chose to join the protest because she could not stand by silently while people suffered due to what she saw as unfair government policy. She explained that her upbringing and personal values taught her not to ignore injustice when she saw it.

The protest involved bondholders and retirees who were opposing the inclusion of their investments in the DDEP, which many felt reduced the value of their savings. Akuffo was seen among the protesters holding messages that highlighted how retirees depended on bond income for essentials like rent and medical bills.

Although she acknowledged that she was never involved in the decision-making process that led to the DDEP, Akuffo made clear she stood with fellow citizens who felt their rights had been overlooked. She stated that if she had the chance to do it again, she would still take the same action in defence of people’s interests.

Her appearance at the protest drew attention because of her status as a former head of the judiciary and was seen as a strong signal of dissatisfaction among some Ghanaians with how the DDEP was implemented.