CJ’s Suspension: Mahama did not violate the Constitution – AG

Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine has defended President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to suspend Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. He insists the action is constitutional and justified.

President Mahama suspended the Chief Justice on Tuesday, April 22. This followed a prima facie case against her from petitions by Daniel Ofori, Ayamga Akolgo, and the civic group Shining Stars of Ghana. A five-member committee has been formed to investigate these allegations under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution.

At a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, April 30, Dr. Ayine responded to criticisms from the Ghana Bar Association (GBA). The GBA had called for an immediate revocation of the suspension, claiming it was unconstitutional.

Dr. Ayine stated, “We believe that he [President Mahama] has not violated the Constitution.” He added there is no reason for the President to reverse his decision.

The GBA argued in a statement dated April 26 that the suspension lacked legal backing. They cited Article 296 of the Constitution and noted there was no published instrument guiding the President’s discretion. However, Dr. Ayine maintained that the President acted fully within legal bounds.