As we celebrate Ghana’s rich history during Ghana Month, let’s take a moment to honor the country’s first Chief Justice, Sir Kobina Arku Korsah. Born on April 3, 1894, in Saltpond, Korsah played a pivotal role in shaping Ghana’s judiciary.
The Supreme Court of Ghana was established in 1876, during the colonial era, as the Gold Coast Supreme Court. It wasn’t until 1957, when Ghana gained independence, that the court became the Supreme Court of Ghana.
Sir Arku Korsah was appointed as the first African Chief Justice of the Gold Coast on April 18, 1956, and later became the first Chief Justice of Ghana on March 6, 1957. He served in this position until December 1963.
During Korsah’s time as Chief Justice, several significant events took place. One notable event was the Kulungugu attack on President Kwame Nkrumah in August 1962.
Korsah presided over the trial of the five defendants, and although three were found not guilty, this verdict displeased the Nkrumah government, ultimately leading to Korsah’s dismissal in December 1963.
His Lordship Korsah was also one of the 20 founding members of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences in 1959.
Sir Kobina Arku Korsah’s contributions to Ghana’s judiciary and his commitment to upholding the rule of law have left a lasting impact on the country.
As we celebrate Ghana’s history, we remember Korsah’s dedication to justice and his role in shaping the nation’s judicial system.
