Petitions against CJ not serious enough to justify suspension – Appiah-Kubi

Former Member of Parliament Andy Appiah-Kubi has criticized the Council of State. This follows the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo by President John Dramani Mahama. The suspension occurred on April 22 after a prima facie case was established. This case involved three petitions from Daniel Ofori, Ayamga Akolgo, and Shining Stars of Ghana.

The decision was made under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution. It was taken in consultation with the Council of State. A five-member committee has been formed to investigate the matter.

On 'The Big Issue' on Channel One TV, Mr. Appiah-Kubi expressed his disappointment. He anticipated that the government would try to frustrate the Chief Justice. He found it improper for the President to take this action.

He stated that while he understands the constitutional process, flaws exist that need review. Mr. Appiah-Kubi warned against allowing politics to interfere with the judiciary. He believes this sets a dangerous precedent for Ghana.

"If politics enters our judiciary, we lose a safe haven," he said. He hoped the Council of State would have advised the President differently. He described the petitions as weak and insufficient for suspension.

"I was disappointed by their verdict of prima facie," he asserted. Mr. Appiah-Kubi emphasized considering broader implications for governance and judicial independence.

"We're setting a bad precedent in Ghana and Africa," he noted. This situation could also affect investor confidence in the country. He concluded that these petitions do not warrant suspending the Chief Justice.