Chief Justice Removal: ACG Urges Ghanaians to Defend Democratic Stability

The Advocacy for Citizens Ghana (ACG) has raised concerns. They allege that the current government wants to remove the Chief Justice. ACG claims this move is politically motivated and threatens judicial independence.

They warn that such an action could weaken Ghana’s democratic foundations. It may also set a dangerous precedent for political interference in the judiciary. ACG calls on the Judicial Service of Ghana, the Ghana Bar Association, and citizens to resist these efforts.

The group urges Supreme Court justices to withstand any pressure. They must protect their institution from politicization and executive overreach.

Ghana’s 1992 Constitution protects judicial independence clearly. Article 125(1) states that justice is administered by an independent judiciary. Article 125(3) asserts that judicial authority belongs only to the courts.

Article 127(1) emphasizes that no one should interfere with judicial decisions. Legal experts warn against removing the Chief Justice through a petition under Article 146(1). This petition is allegedly backed by ruling government supporters.

Critics argue this would undermine public confidence in the courts. It risks turning the judiciary into a tool for partisan interests, violating constitutional safeguards.

For over thirty years, Ghana’s judiciary has upheld democracy. It ensures fair trials and maintains the rule of law. ACG warns that weakening this institution threatens the stability of the Fourth Republic.

They stress judges should not be removed due to political changes. Ghana’s democracy thrives when institutions remain neutral and protected from political shifts.

As tensions rise, ACG calls on all stakeholders to act. They especially urge legal professionals and Supreme Court justices to oppose threats to judicial autonomy publicly. Safeguarding judicial independence is vital for preserving democracy in Ghana.

ACG insists that the fight for democracy must occur in courts, not through political means.