Accra: Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Emmanuel Yonny Kulendi, has urged young Ghanaians, particularly law students and legal professionals, to resist the growing desire to leave the country in search of opportunities abroad. He stressed that Ghana's future depends on citizens who are willing to help reform and strengthen its institutions.
According to Ghana Web, speaking at the University of Ghana School of Law's Distinguished Alumni Lecture Series on July 30, 2026, Justice Kulendi challenged students to reject pessimism about the country's future and instead dedicate themselves to building a stronger nation. Addressing what he described as increasing cynicism among the youth, the Supreme Court judge said many young people had become convinced that Ghana offered no meaningful future, prompting them to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Justice Kulendi acknowledged that every society has its challenges and that Ghana is no exception. However, he argued that the true measure of character lies not in complaining about imperfections or abandoning the country, but in working to improve it for future generations. He urged, "Resist the temptation for cynicism... If God wanted you to be American, Canadian, or German, God would have landed you there."
He emphasized the responsibility of each generation to strengthen the institutions they inherit. Justice Kulendi reminded the audience that Ghana's justice system has been built over decades through the efforts of judges, lawyers, and public servants who came before them. He encouraged today's legal practitioners and students to preserve and enhance this legacy.
Justice Kulendi further stressed that the strength of Ghana's justice system does not depend solely on constitutional provisions or landmark legal decisions. Instead, it is sustained by the consistent performance of everyday professional responsibilities carried out with honesty, competence, and integrity. He cited examples such as judges delivering judgments promptly and lawyers acting with candour.
He concluded by emphasizing that Ghana's constitutional democracy and justice system would continue to thrive only if judges remain independent, lawyers uphold the highest ethical standards, and the public retains confidence in the administration of justice. Preserving this trust is essential to protecting liberty and ensuring that the country's institutions remain strong for future generations.