“Law & Constitution” Book Launch: Chief Justice’s Remarks
We meet tonight to acknowledge the trailblazing work of an astute attorney in these islands and present President of the Bar Council, Mr. Fulford.
May I, Mr. Fulford, take this opportunity for myself, and on behalf of the Judiciary, to congratulate you on the launch of your book: Law and Constitution.
Many nations ground their continued existence and wellbeing in the constitution of the land which mirrors their history and engages their aspiration. In such countries, the constitution is accepted as the supreme law which sets out the principles and values that govern the behaviour of individuals, institutions, and the state. It provides protections to the individual in society and provides a framework for social order and justice.
The development of the Constitution of these Islands has been a significant journey reflective of the islands’ evolving political landscape. It has been shaped by a series of historical developments and governance reforms. The various amendments over the years have served as a catalyst for constitutional reform, emphasizing democratic governance, accountability, and human rights. Over time, political developments, including changing attitudes towards governance have prompted reviews and amendments of the constitutional framework.
The constitution is the passport of the citizen to life in a well-ordered society. But how does one make use of one’s endowment of which one is unaware?
The gift of knowledge becomes the gift of power.
This book Law and Constitution sheds light on the complex relationship between law and constitutional principles, examines the principles of justice, equity, and the rule of law, challenges the citizen on ways to safeguard democratic values in an ever-changing socio-legal landscape. It invites a reflection on their impact on the society, and invites the participation of informed citizens in nation-building.
The book provides resource material for legal practitioners and the courts, and is aimed at improving the constitutional jurisprudence of these Islands, but it also remarkably targets the person unlearned in the law, and provides understanding of constitutional concepts of due process and access to justice, to empower and provide insight regarding how the Constitution applies to them, or is relevant to life as it is lived.
Within this book, is a chapter dedicated to the “man on the street”, and the “everyday citizen” – a reminder that the constitution is an available resource for every individual to participate in the democratic process. “The man of the street”, is helped to develop an understanding of the law and constitutional rights and responsibilities with an eye on individual protections and the attainment of society’s wellbeing for the present and the future.
Mr. Fulford, ‘Law and Constitution’ is a noteworthy accomplishment that speaks of your hard work, dedication, and passion, not only as an attorney, but as a citizen of these Islands who seeks the development of the law and jurisprudence of these islands.
It is with that acknowledgement that I join in applauding your work.
Congratulations, once again, Mr. Fulford, your contribution to this field of law in this country for the Bench, the Bar, and the citizen, is commendable.
I celebrate your proud moment with you and wait with excitement on the impact your book will have on life and learning in these Islands.
Thank you.
M.M. Agyemang
Chief Justice 8/11/25