Minority Leader Slams Council of State Over Chief Justice Suspension
The Minority Leader of Ghana’s Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has launched a scathing attack on the Council of State, accusing the body of aiding a calculated and politically motivated suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. Speaking at a press conference ahead of a planned multi-party protest, Afenyo-Markin alleged that the government had deliberately orchestrated the Chief Justice’s suspension with the backing of the Council of State.
Accusations of Executive Interference
Afenyo-Markin warned that the integrity of the judiciary is under serious threat, citing a pattern of executive interference and strategic appointments aimed at consolidating political control over the courts. He described the current situation as a systematic and calculated assault on the independence of the judiciary, an institution that serves as the last line of defense for the rule of law, protection of rights, and survival of Ghana’s democratic republic.
Multi-Party Protest
The Minority Caucus is rallying public support for its May 5 protest, insisting that the rule of law, separation of powers, and constitutional order are at stake. Afenyo-Markin emphasized that the Council of State had failed Ghana’s democracy by backing the government’s actions.
Reactions from Other Stakeholders
The Founder of the People’s National Party (PNP), Janet Nabla, has also condemned the suspension of the Chief Justice, accusing President John Mahama of violating the Constitution throughout the entire process.
The National Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, popularly known as Nana B, has accused President Mahama of orchestrating the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. Nana B cited a past meeting between President Mahama and lawyers, during which the President allegedly expressed dissatisfaction with the judiciary and promised changes if elected.
Implications for Ghana’s Democracy
The suspension of the Chief Justice and the subsequent reactions from stakeholders have raised concerns about the state of Ghana’s democracy and the independence of its judiciary. The planned protest on May 5 is expected to draw attention to these concerns and push for the protection of the rule of law and constitutional order.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has sparked a heated debate about the role of the executive branch in Ghana’s governance structure. As the situation unfolds, Ghanaians will be watching closely to see how the government responds to the concerns raised by the Minority Caucus and other stakeholders.
