Professor Baffour Agyemang-Duah, a prominent governance analyst, has raised alarms over the political implications of ongoing petitions calling for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo. He cautioned that if the process lacks transparency, it could be perceived as politically motivated, undermining public trust in Ghana’s democratic institutions.

In an interview with Citi FM on March 28, Professor Agyemang-Duah emphasized the potential for the situation to escalate into a political controversy if due process is not strictly adhered to. His remarks come in the wake of petitions submitted to President John Mahama urging the dismissal of the Chief Justice.

The governance expert pointed to the broader concern of new governments targeting key figures in independent state institutions. “Given that some members of the NDC have expressed dissatisfaction with the Chief Justice’s actions during the campaign, this could easily be seen as a political witch hunt,” he said.

Drawing parallels with the removal of the former Electoral Commission chairperson by former President Akufo-Addo, Agyemang-Duah warned of the dangers of setting a precedent in which every new government feels compelled to replace senior figures in constitutional bodies.

“If this becomes a norm, it creates instability and erodes public confidence,” he cautioned. He further noted that such a trend would undermine the stability of Ghana’s institutions, potentially leading to widespread mistrust.

Meanwhile, President Mahama has responded to Chief Justice Torkonoo’s request for copies of the petitions. The President has granted her 10 days to review and respond to the allegations, marking the next phase in the constitutional process for her potential removal.

Source:TheDotNews