Ayariga defends suspension of CJ, criticises GBA’s position

Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has defended President John Dramani Mahama's decision to suspend Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. He dismissed criticisms from the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) and other legal experts.

In a statement on April 30, Ayariga justified the suspension. He said it followed constitutional provisions and involved the Council of State, as required by Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution.

His comments responded to a GBA statement from April 26. The GBA called the suspension unconstitutional and lacking legal basis. They argued that the President's action was flawed due to missing regulations under Article 296.

Ayariga questioned the GBA's position. He asked if they had issues with the Council of State's advice in this matter. He expressed surprise at what he saw as an attempt to discredit a lawful process.

He stated, "Concerns about a President’s potential bias are addressed by consulting the Council of State." Ayariga added that unless the GBA disagrees with this advice, their criticism seems disingenuous.

President Mahama suspended Chief Justice Torkornoo on April 22. This followed a prima facie case against her based on petitions from Daniel Ofori, Ayamga Akolgo, and Shining Stars of Ghana. A five-member committee has been formed to investigate further.