Judiciary must be cleansed of rogue judges – Tony Aidoo

Dr. Tony Aidoo, a former Senior Presidential Aide, is calling for major changes in Ghana's judicial system. He wants all unfit judges removed.

Aidoo believes President John Dramani Mahama acted correctly regarding Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo's impeachment. His comments come after the suspension of the fourth-highest officer in Ghana. This action followed an investigation into three petitions for her removal.

President Mahama suspended the Chief Justice based on Article 146(10) of the Constitution. He did this on the advice of the Council of State, pending a committee investigation.

On Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Dr. Aidoo said, “The judiciary must be cleansed of rogue judges.” He added that fresh air is needed if there is a stench in a room.

He believes the President is protecting both the judiciary and Ghana from inappropriate behavior by certain officials. Aidoo referenced law professor Kweku Asare, who first called for Torkonoo's impeachment due to actions undermining democracy.

Dr. Aidoo dismissed fears that this could lead to arbitrary removals of judges with each new government. He stated, “If a judge has done nothing wrong, processes won’t reach this stage.”

He emphasized that President Mahama fulfilled his duty by forwarding the petition to the Council of State. After establishing a prima facie case, he used his constitutional discretion to suspend Torkonoo.

Aidoo sees no wrongdoing in how the President handled this situation. Although members of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) criticized him for bias and lack of reasons, Aidoo disagrees.

He explained that the President has both duties and discretionary powers under the Constitution.

In related news, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie has become acting Chief Justice after Torkonoo's suspension. He is one of nine justices on the Supreme Court and is currently its most senior member.