Suspension of Chief Justice violates constitutional norms – CDM

The Centre for Democratic Movement (CDM) has condemned the suspension of Ghana’s Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. They view this action as a serious violation of constitutional procedures. CDM believes it threatens judicial independence.

The group criticized President John Dramani Mahama’s decision. They argue it bypassed legal processes outlined in Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution. In a strong statement, CDM said the President's action breaches constitutional norms and politicizes the judiciary.

CDM referenced relevant constitutional provisions and court cases to support its claims. They highlighted the case of Frank Agyei-Twum v Attorney General as significant. The group expressed concerns about discretionary authority under Article 296.

They argued that no published regulations guided the President's decision. Without such guidelines, they claimed, discretionary power becomes arbitrary and unregulated. This lack of regulation raises constitutional deficiencies.

CDM described the situation as a dangerous precedent for executive overreach. They warned that unchecked actions could erode public trust in the judiciary. The group called for an immediate reversal of the suspension.

They urged civil society, the Ghana Bar Association, and media to defend constitutional governance. CDM emphasized that "the Constitution must not be weaponized." They insisted that judicial independence should not be punished.

In their full statement, CDM expressed unequivocal condemnation of Justice Torkornoo's suspension. They noted this action undermines impartiality in a democratic society. The composition of the investigative committee also raised concerns about neutrality.

The committee's political affiliations threaten procedural integrity and institutional credibility. Notable members have past controversies that cast doubt on their impartiality. This setup violates international norms regarding judicial independence.

The suspension contravenes Ghana’s commitments under international frameworks too. It risks damaging Ghana’s democratic reputation and obligations globally.

CDM sees this case as part of a broader trend of executive overreach in Ghanaian governance. If left unchallenged, it could reverse decades of democratic progress.

To restore constitutional integrity, CDM calls for immediate actions:
1. Reverse Justice Torkornoo's suspension.
2. Reconstitute the investigative committee with neutral members.
3. Affirm judicial independence as essential to democracy.
4. Investigate procedural breaches related to discretionary power.
5. Engage with regional and international bodies for oversight.

CDM urges all defenders of democracy to rise above partisanship and protect foundational principles in Ghanaian governance.

This moment requires vigilance against political gain at democracy's expense. The Centre for Democratic Movement remains committed to defending justice and safeguarding democratic governance in Ghana.