CJ suspension demo: ‘This is not governance; it is tyranny’ – Minority tells gov't

The Minority in Parliament has strongly criticized the government. They accuse President John Mahama of undermining democracy and intimidating political opponents.

The NPP Caucus expressed these views during a protest on May 5. This demonstration was against the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo by President Mahama.

During the protest, Caucus Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin presented a petition to Parliament. He claimed that President Mahama has "weaponised the security services." He accused the government of conducting "retrogressive PNDC-style raids" on political adversaries' homes.

Afenyo-Markin stated that private citizens have suffered violations. He mentioned former Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Ernest Addison and former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta as examples. Their properties were seized, and their rights were violated.

The Minority Leader warned that these actions erode democratic governance. He described the situation as “tyranny clothed in the robes of democracy.”

Afenyo-Markin also criticized petitions leading to the Chief Justice's suspension. He called them “flimsy” and “pedestrian.” He accused the Council of State of failing by entertaining those letters.

He said, “For the Chief Justice to be singled out for this attack… is unacceptable.” He urged the Council to recognize that their institution is under threat.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin emphasized that judicial officers should remain impartial. He stated they do not serve at a government's whims or caprices.

He added, “If you wanted to be a politician, you would have joined a party.” What is happening to Chief Justice Torkornoo is “repugnant to good conscience,” he said.

He also accused the government of hypocrisy regarding Supreme Court appointments. The government had previously criticized expanding the court but appointed seven new judges under questionable circumstances.

Afenyo-Markin urged judicial staff not to be complacent about these changes.

He cautioned against future political vengeance, saying it could harm democracy.

“If this cycle continues, there will be no hope for our democracy,” he warned.

He advised judicial staff to consider their future carefully. Promises from current officials may not last beyond today’s politics.

“We will speak up for posterity,” he concluded, urging everyone to think deeply about tomorrow.