Renowned Ghanaian lawyer Tsatsu Tsikata has cautioned against the use of criminal prosecution to settle political or personal scores.

He made the remarks at the UPSA Law School honourific lecture and awards ceremony held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, under the theme “Celebrating the Lifetime Achievements of Lawyer Tsatsu Tsikata.”

Reflecting on his imprisonment during the tenure of former President John Agyekum Kufuor, Tsikata stressed that the justice system must remain independent and free from political influence.

“Political affiliation, settling political or personal scores, or wanting to show where power lies should not be the reason for criminal prosecution. Not even for a criminal investigation,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of fairness and integrity in the administration of justice, warning that the misuse of legal processes undermines public confidence in the rule of law.

His remarks formed part of broader reflections on his career and experiences within Ghana’s legal and political landscape.

Background

Tsikata, former head of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation, was convicted in 2008 for causing financial loss to the state under former President John Agyekum Kufuor and sentenced to five years.

He was pardoned in 2009 by John Evans Atta Mills after serving part of his term, and in 2010 the Supreme Court quashed the conviction, citing a flawed trial.