Mahama was fair in CJ suspension — Vanderpuye tells critics

Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, the National Coordinator of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), defended President John Dramani Mahama’s actions regarding the Chief Justice's suspension. He called the process fair and procedurally sound.

Vanderpuye spoke on Breakfast Daily on Channel One TV on April 24. He dismissed accusations from the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The NPP criticized President Mahama’s decision as "unconstitutional, absurd, and repugnant."

This criticism followed Mahama's suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo. A prima facie case was established based on three petitions for her removal.

Vanderpuye stated that real democracy was compromised under Nana Akufo-Addo. He claimed that Akufo-Addo exploited gaps in the Constitution. Vanderpuye urged people to appreciate President Mahama's actions.

He emphasized that Mahama’s decisions aligned with constitutional directives. He also noted that they exceeded expectations for fairness and transparency. Vanderpuye said, “President Mahama has been fair.”

He added that Mahama allowed the Chief Justice to see the petition beforehand. This gave her time to prepare before meeting with the committee.

President Mahama announced his decision on April 22 after consulting with the Council of State. This marks a significant moment in Ghana’s judicial system. The highest-ranking judicial officer now faces a formal inquiry into her conduct.

On April 23, the Office of the President confirmed receipt of two new petitions against the Chief Justice. This escalates an already tense situation in Ghana’s legal and political landscape.