Council of State’s advice on Chief Justice suspension ‘poisonous’ — Former Deputy A-G

Former Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah Yeboah has criticized the Council of State. He opposes their recommendation that led to Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo's suspension. He warns this advice could harm judicial independence and Ghana’s democracy.

In an interview with Channel One TV, Mr. Tuah Yeboah called the Council’s role “very acidic, very poisonous.” He expressed concerns about the implications of their input in this sensitive matter.

His comments follow President John Dramani Mahama's decision on April 22 to suspend the Chief Justice. The President acted after three petitions were submitted against her. This suspension was done under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution, with input from the Council of State.

A five-member committee has been formed to investigate these petitions, as required by law. However, Tuah Yeboah believes the Council should have been more cautious in their recommendation.

He stated, “If you take the Chief Justice out and advise for her suspension, tread cautiously.” He emphasized that such decisions have serious consequences for judicial independence in Ghana.

Tuah Yeboah noted that while the Constitution requires the Council to advise the President, that advice is not binding. “The buck stops with the President,” he said. He warned that this recommendation could have dire effects on Ghana’s democracy.

The controversy surrounding the Chief Justice’s suspension continues to spark public debate. Legal experts, politicians, and civil society are closely monitoring how this situation unfolds and its potential impact on Ghana’s judiciary.