The suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo by President John Mahama has sparked controversy and debate in Ghana. The Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah, has raised concerns about the President’s actions, suggesting that they amount to interference with the judiciary.
Ahiagbah believes that President Mahama’s decision to suspend the Chief Justice is driven by political motivations, rather than genuine concerns about the judiciary. He argues that the President is attempting to remove Chief Justice Torkornoo in order to appoint a candidate who will align with the agenda of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The NPP spokesperson emphasized the importance of safeguarding democracy and warned against political interference in the judiciary. He expressed his belief that President Mahama should refrain from meddling in judicial affairs and respect the independence of the judiciary.
In response to the suspension of Chief Justice Torkornoo, the opposition NPP and its allies organized a major protest in Accra. Led by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the demonstrators marched through the streets and submitted petitions to various government institutions, calling for the reinstatement of the Chief Justice.
Afenyo-Markin criticized the petitions that led to the Chief Justice’s suspension, describing them as “flimsy” and “pedestrian”. He also condemned the Council of State for entertaining these petitions and failing to protect the judiciary from political interference.
The Minority Leader stressed the importance of judicial officers remaining impartial and above partisan politics. He warned against political vengeance and urged judicial staff to uphold the principles of democracy and justice.
Afenyo-Markin also raised concerns about the government’s recent appointments of seven new judges to the Supreme Court, suggesting that the process may have been compromised. He called on judicial staff to remain vigilant and not succumb to political pressures.
In conclusion, the NPP spokesperson urged all stakeholders to prioritize the integrity and independence of the judiciary. He emphasized the need to end bitterness and political vendettas, in order to safeguard democracy and ensure the future stability of Ghana’s judicial system.
