Minority: CJ’s suspension a politically motivated witch-hunt to control Judiciary

The Minority in Parliament has criticized President John Dramani Mahama. They condemned his decision to suspend Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. They called the move 'tyranny' and a failure of good governance.

The suspension follows a prima facie case from three petitions. These petitions call for the Chief Justice’s removal from office. The decision aligns with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution. It was made after consulting the Council of State.

A five-member committee has been formed to investigate this matter. The committee operates under Article 146(6).

In a press statement on April 22, the Minority expressed their concerns. They described the suspension as politically motivated and a witch-hunt. They believe it aims to control the judiciary and abuse power.

The Minority argued that this action does not reflect good governance. They see it as part of political persecution using state institutions against opponents.

They stated, “President Mahama's suspension of Chief Justice Torkornoo is a judicial coup.” They view it as an abuse of executive power and an attack on judicial independence.

This action occurs while legal challenges are pending in the Supreme Court. The Minority accused Mahama of trying to pack courts with sympathetic justices.

They demanded that Chief Justice Torkornoo be reinstated immediately. They want all removal proceedings halted until the Supreme Court rules on constitutionality.

The integrity of Ghana’s judiciary is crucial, they emphasized. The Minority vowed to oppose any attempts to politicize the courts.

They warned that further harassment or unlawful removal will face strong resistance from them.