Professor Richard Frimpong Oppong, a nominee for the Supreme Court, has vehemently denied allegations made by the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) that he would promote LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana if confirmed. The NIB’s claims were based on a paper Oppong wrote titled “Foreign Same Sex Marriages Before Commonwealth African Courts,” which they misconstrued as an attempt to impose LGBTQ+ practices on Africans.
Oppong clarified that the paper was actually a narrow exploration of conflict of laws, not a promotion of LGBTQ+ rights. He rejected the NIB’s assessment, emphasizing his academic freedom to explore various subjects without necessarily endorsing them. He assured the Appointments Committee of Parliament that, if approved, he would apply Ghanaian law impartially, without injecting his personal views into his judgments.
Addressing concerns about his lack of judicial experience, Oppong highlighted his extensive reputation in Ghana’s legal system, his practice with two law firms, and his experience with the Ghana Arbitration Centre. He emphasized that, although he has lived abroad, he has remained deeply connected to Ghana’s legal system and has written extensively on Ghanaian law.
Oppong expressed his eagerness to serve on the Supreme Court, where he could contribute to the development of Ghana’s legal system in a unique and meaningful way. He demonstrated his commitment to upholding the laws of Ghana and ensuring that justice is served impartially. By denying the NIB’s allegations and addressing concerns about his experience, Oppong sought to reassure the committee of his fitness for the Supreme Court position.
