NPP protest not about defending Torkonoo – Suame MP clarifies

John Darko, the Member of Parliament for Suame, spoke about the NPP's protest. He said it is not to defend suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo. Instead, it is a stand against what they see as a loss of judicial independence.

Mr. Darko made these comments on Channel One TV’s Big Issue on Saturday. He stated, “What the NPP is doing on Monday, May 5, is a protest against the destruction of the independence of the judiciary.”

The NPP is organizing this demonstration with four other political parties. They have condemned Chief Justice Torkonoo's suspension as unconstitutional. They believe it threatens Ghana’s democratic principles.

The controversy began when President John Dramani Mahama announced her suspension on April 22. This followed three petitions for her removal and a prima facie case against her.

The president acted under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution after consulting with the Council of State. His decision has faced strong criticism from opposition figures.

Mr. Darko highlighted that Monday’s protest addresses concerns about separation of powers. There is a growing belief that the executive branch is undermining the judiciary.