The Supreme court upheld the decision of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA)’s which prevents Ghanaian celebrities from endorsing alcoholic drinks.
This brings an end to a highly publicised nineteen-month legal suit filed against the Authority by the CEO of Black Kulcha Music, Mark Darlington Osae.
Delivering the version of the ruling at the apex court on Wednesday, June 19, Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, said the FDA’s directive does not contravene the constitution.
This means that well-known personalities or professionals are perpetually banned from appearing in advertisements that promote alcoholic drinks.
On the day this landmark ruling was given, only one well-known personality in the showbiz industry, George Quaye showed up in court.
The full ruling is expected to be made public on Friday June 21.
Speaking to reporters after the ruling, Director for Legal and Corporate Affairs at the Food and Drugs Authority, Joseph Bennie welcomed the ruling and said the Authority will take steps to prevent well-known personalities and professionals from circumventing the order.
An angry representative of the plaintiff with the Ghana Music Alliance, Nii Ofoli Yartey left the court house saying they’ll continue with their advocacy.
In 2015 the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) enforced a directive to regulate the use of alcohol among Ghanaians. However, aspects of their guidelines prevent celebrities from advertising for alcoholic beverages.
The Authority had explained that due to the influential nature of these personalities, alcoholic advertisements they are involved in could push minors into alcoholism.
Representing the plaintiff Mark Darlington Osae, was Bobby Banson from the Robert Smith Law Group, while the Food and Drugs Authority was represented by Justine Amenuvor.
