Minority calls Justice Torkornoo's suspension “Executive Overreach”

The Minority in Parliament has sharply criticized President John Dramani Mahama. They oppose his decision to suspend Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. They call it a dangerous attack on Ghana’s Judiciary.

The suspension was announced on Tuesday, April 22. It follows the formation of a committee to investigate petitions against the Chief Justice. The Minority Caucus labeled this move a “judicial coup.” They demand the immediate reinstatement of Justice Torkornoo.

In their statement, the Minority accused the Executive of interfering with the judiciary. They warned that this decision sets a dangerous precedent, similar to Ghana’s past. They described it as “judicial overreach” and “executive interference.”

The Caucus compared this situation to the 1963 dismissal of Chief Justice Sir Arku Korsah. That dismissal occurred after a court ruling that upset President Kwame Nkrumah's government. The Minority believes this suspension is politically motivated and aims to appoint judges loyal to the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).

They argue that this undermines judicial neutrality. “This is neither about reform nor accountability,” they stated. “It is tyranny masquerading as governance.” They emphasized that Ghanaians will not tolerate sacrificing judicial integrity for political gain.

The Minority also warned against further attempts to intimidate or remove the Chief Justice. They promised “fierce legal and public resistance” against what they see as unlawful actions. They called for an immediate halt to all proceedings regarding Justice Torkornoo’s removal.

They insisted that only the Judiciary should rule on the legality of this process. “The integrity of Ghana’s Judiciary is non-negotiable,” they concluded. The Minority pledged to defend the courts from politicization and executive overreach.