The Acting Chief Justice of Ghana, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, has formally sanctioned the Ghana Bar Association’s (GBA) decision to abstain from all court appearances on Monday, June 30, 2025. This day is designated as Martyrs’ Day, a solemn occasion dedicated to commemorating the lives and sacrifices of three High Court judges and a retired army officer who were tragically murdered on that date in 1982. The directive, issued in a circular on June 17, 2025, and addressed to judges and magistrates throughout the country, underscores the judiciary’s recognition of this long-standing tradition, allowing legal professionals to fully participate in the commemorative events without the constraints of their professional obligations.
The significance of Martyrs’ Day lies in its remembrance of Justices Fred Poku Sarkodee, Cecilia Koranteng-Addow, and Kwadwo Agyei Agyapong, along with retired Major Sam Acquah. Their abduction and subsequent murder on June 30, 1982, sent shockwaves through the nation and remains a deeply etched scar on Ghana’s legal and political landscape. The observance serves not only as a tribute to their individual lives but also as a potent reminder of the fragility of justice and the importance of upholding the rule of law. The GBA’s withdrawal from court proceedings on this day symbolizes their solidarity with the memory of these fallen colleagues and their commitment to the principles they represented.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s directive, echoing the established tradition, acknowledges the gravity of Martyrs’ Day and its place within the legal calendar. By granting this formal approval, the judiciary reinforces the importance of collective remembrance and reflection on the events of 1982. The absence of legal proceedings on this day allows the legal fraternity to fully engage in the commemorative activities, honoring the sacrifices made and reaffirming their dedication to the pursuit of justice. The circular, meticulously distributed to key figures within the judicial system, including the Acting Judicial Secretary, Court Manager of the Law Court Complex, Supervising High Court Judges, and all Registrars, ensures a coordinated and respectful observance of the day.
This year’s Martyrs’ Day commemoration is anticipated to draw a significant gathering of dignitaries from the judiciary and the broader legal community. Their presence will underscore the nation’s enduring commitment to the values of justice, accountability, and the rule of law. The event will provide a platform for reflection on the tragic events of 1982 and their continuing resonance within the Ghanaian legal system. It will also serve as an opportunity to reaffirm the importance of protecting judicial independence and ensuring the safety and security of those who dedicate their lives to upholding justice.
The murders of Justices Sarkodee, Koranteng-Addow, Agyapong, and Major Acquah represent a stark reminder of the potential consequences of undermining the rule of law and the importance of safeguarding judicial integrity. The annual commemoration of their deaths serves as a powerful symbol of the ongoing struggle for justice and the enduring memory of those who paid the ultimate price in its pursuit. The GBA’s withdrawal from court proceedings on Martyrs’ Day allows the legal profession to collectively honor their fallen colleagues and reaffirm their dedication to the principles for which they stood.
The meticulous distribution of Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s circular ensures that the day is observed with the appropriate solemnity and respect throughout the judicial system. The anticipated presence of dignitaries from across the legal spectrum further underscores the significance of Martyrs’ Day and its enduring relevance within Ghanaian society. It provides a crucial opportunity to reflect on the past, reaffirm the present commitment to justice, and inspire future generations to uphold the rule of law, even in the face of adversity. The commemoration serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that the pursuit of justice is a continuous journey, and the sacrifices made in its name will never be forgotten.
