CJ’s Suspension: TUC advises Mahama to hasten cautiously

Justice Gertrude Torkornoo

The Ghana Trades Union Congress (TUC) is worried about Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo's suspension. This follows three petitions calling for her removal from office.

Mr. Joshua Ansah, the TUC Secretary-General, urged President John Dramani Mahama to proceed cautiously. He spoke at the 2025 National May Day Parade in Accra. Mr. Ansah noted that Organised Labour has been monitoring the situation closely.

“We have read bits and pieces of the petitions,” he said. He expressed grave concern over this development. “This process sets our democracy on a dangerous slippery slope,” he warned.

He advised the President to be careful with his decision. “Your choice will impact our democracy significantly,” he added.

During the May Day Celebration, Mr. Ansah discussed this year’s theme: “Resetting Pay and Working Conditions in Ghana.” He emphasized its importance for workers and the nation’s future.

President Mahama encouraged public sector workers to report mismanagement in state enterprises. He expressed concern about their declining fortunes across the country.

He stated that many state-owned enterprises were poorly managed by the previous government. “Do not stay silent when management is ruining your enterprise,” he urged workers.

“You are first affected by job losses when these institutions fail,” he reminded them. The President emphasized that these enterprises belong to the workers and ensure lifelong employment.

“When things go wrong, speak up without fear,” he said, promising support for their efforts to improve conditions.

At a conference on March 13, 2025, President Mahama revealed that most state-owned enterprises are in debt. Even GIHOC Distilleries, which used to pay dividends, now owes money.

“How can you sell alcohol and be in debt?” he questioned. He called on management and workers to collaborate for viability since these institutions belong to everyone.

The President reminded public sector workers of a million working-age individuals seeking jobs but facing barriers due to limited opportunities.

He acknowledged that youth unemployment poses risks to national stability. Recently, he launched job creation initiatives aimed at providing sustainable employment for young people.

President Mahama assured workers they need a government that supports them through challenges and successes alike.

He committed that his administration would be there for them during tough times as well as prosperous ones.

As part of constitutional reforms, attention will focus on establishing a Permanent Independent Emoluments Commission. This commission aims to create fair public service wage structures and address disparities among different worker groups within the public sector.