OsahenYells: Judiciary Is Being Intimidated! …As Coalition Of Political Parties Bare Teeth At Mahama

Opposition Coalition Protests Judiciary Issues

A coalition of opposition parties protested in Accra on May 5, 2025. They called the protest “Save The Judiciary.” The group expressed concerns about recent events affecting the judiciary.

The protesters assured the judiciary they would not be alone. They stated that intimidation should not deter them from their duties. Some participants dressed as justices to show solidarity.

The Mahama administration has faced two demonstrations in its first 119 days. One protest focused on fighting illegal mining, or galamsey. Protesters demanded a state of emergency, a promise made during the 2024 campaign.

The coalition, led by the New Patriotic Party, protested against Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo's suspension. They believe her suspension is unconstitutional and part of a conspiracy to control the judiciary.

Despite some misunderstandings with police, petitions were delivered to Parliament and Jubilee House. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin presented one petition to Parliament.

He urged lawmakers to prioritize democracy over politics. He emphasized that Ghana is under siege and called for unity across political lines. Afenyo-Markin insisted that Parliament must protect judicial independence.

At Jubilee House, Deputy Chief of Staff Stanislav Xoese Dogbe received another petition on behalf of President Mahama. He acknowledged the peaceful nature of both protests held recently.

Afenyo-Markin addressed protesters and read their petition aloud. He described President Mahama’s actions as an attack on Ghana’s democracy.

He stressed they were there as concerned citizens defending judicial independence. The coalition warned against politically motivated allegations against the Chief Justice.

Afenyo-Markin cautioned that today it might be Torkornoo; tomorrow it could be anyone else. He accused the government of undermining judicial processes by appointing seven new Supreme Court judges without proper consultation.

He claimed this bypassed necessary constitutional protocols like consulting the Judicial Council and parliamentary approval. Afenyo-Markin encouraged judges to take bold steps against executive overreach.

President Mahama has begun processes regarding Chief Justice Torkornoo's future after her suspension. A committee will investigate several petitions seeking her removal, following advice from the Council of State.