Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has strongly criticized recent petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, describing them as lacking legal merit and driven by political motives.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday following a National Executive Committee meeting of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Afenyo-Markin said the petitions submitted to President John Mahama were based on “flimsy, pedestrian excuses” that do not meet the constitutional threshold required for the dismissal of a sitting Chief Justice.

“You wonder whether these are real grounds for the removal of a Chief Justice,” the Minority Leader said. “What is happening is unacceptable. It is clear that the NDC wants to infiltrate the judiciary and politicize it.”

Three individuals have reportedly filed petitions against Justice Torkornoo. While the details remain undisclosed, President Mahama has referred the matter to the Council of State, in line with constitutional procedure, and has requested a formal response from the Chief Justice.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin warned of growing efforts by members of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) to influence the judiciary, urging Supreme Court justices to resist internal divisions. “Let no one think that by dislodging one of you, they will be next in line. The judiciary must present a united front and push back,” he said.

He called on the Ghana Bar Association and civil society groups to publicly defend the independence of the judiciary, warning that the ongoing campaign risks undermining public trust in the rule of law.

Addressing President Mahama directly, Mr. Afenyo-Markin appealed for restraint. “This is his final term in office. He should focus on building a legacy, not enabling hardliners who seek to disrupt democratic governance,” he said.

Source:TheDotNews