CJ suspension politically motivated, cloaked in technicality - Ahiagbah

Richard Ahiagbah, the Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), criticized the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo. He called it politically motivated and a threat to Ghana’s democracy.

In an interview on JoyNews' The Pulse, he responded to Deputy Attorney General Justice Srem-Sai. Srem-Sai described the suspension as a “technical” process. Ahiagbah strongly disagreed with this characterization.

He stated, “The process may be technical, but the motive is political.” He warned that undermining the judiciary for political reasons could harm democracy in Ghana.

Ahiagbah alleged that this suspension is part of a plan by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). He claimed they aim to remove Electoral Commission Chairperson Jean Mensa next. He said, “That is very egregious and most unfortunate for the NDC.”

He noted that President Mahama received at least three petitions against Mensa. Some of these petitions date back to January. Ahiagbah questioned why these petitions were not sent to the Chief Justice as required by law.

He suggested that the President knows those petitions are weak. He believes this Chief Justice would not entertain them. Therefore, he thinks their strategy is to replace her with someone more compliant.

When asked about past actions during Charlotte Osei's removal, he dismissed comparisons. He said, “That does not compare to this matter.” Osei's case involved internal disputes among EC staff, unlike the current situation.

This follows President John Mahama's decision to suspend Chief Justice Torkonoo. The President found sufficient grounds for further inquiry after three individuals filed a petition against her for misconduct and incompetence.

The President has asked the Council of State for advice on how to proceed with this issue.