Minority in Parliament has sharply criticized President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to suspend Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, alleging that the move is a politically motivated attempt to undermine the judiciary and consolidate executive control.

In a strongly worded statement issued Tuesday, April 22, the Minority described the suspension as a “judicial coup” and “reckless abuse of executive power.” The action follows the establishment of a prima facie case in response to three petitions seeking the Chief Justice’s removal, triggering a formal investigation under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution.

A five-member committee has since been appointed to review the allegations, with the President acting in consultation with the Council of State, as required by law. However, Minority leaders argue that the timing and circumstances of the suspension point to a broader agenda.

“This move, taken while legitimate legal challenges are pending before the Supreme Court, reeks of intolerable political vendetta, judicial intimidation, and a calculated attempt to pack the courts with NDC-sympathetic justices—as openly promised by President Mahama in Akosombo in 2023,” the statement read.

The Minority is calling for the immediate reinstatement of Chief Justice Torkornoo, at least until the judiciary rules on the constitutionality of the ongoing removal process. Lawmakers warned of potential legal and public resistance should the executive branch proceed with what they view as political interference in judicial affairs.

“The integrity of Ghana’s judiciary is non-negotiable. We shall vigorously oppose any and all attempts to turn our courts into political tools,” the statement continued.

The suspension, announced earlier this week, has added new fuel to ongoing debates about judicial independence and executive overreach in Ghana. The Presidency has defended its actions, stating that the suspension is procedural and does not constitute a declaration of guilt.

The five-member investigative committee includes two Supreme Court justices, a former Auditor-General, a military officer, and a university professor. It is expected to deliver findings that could have far-reaching implications for Ghana’s judiciary and its balance of power.

For now, senior Supreme Court Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie is expected to serve as acting Chief Justice during the investigation.

Source:TheDotNews