Old Tafo MP files suit to overturn Mahama’s suspension of Chief Justice

Vincent Ekow Assafuah, the MP for Old Tafo, has filed a lawsuit. He is seeking to stop President John Dramani Mahama's suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.

This legal action follows the President's decision on April 22. He suspended Chief Justice Torkornoo after reviewing three undisclosed petitions for her removal. The President consulted with the Council of State and formed a five-member committee to investigate the allegations.

Assafuah argues that the President's actions violate constitutional provisions. He claims they threaten judicial independence. He also states that the Chief Justice was not allowed to respond before consultations began, as required by Article 146(6) of the Constitution.

In his suit against the Attorney General, Assafuah cites several articles from the Constitution. He believes these articles mandate notifying the Chief Justice about any removal petition. The President should obtain her comments before consulting with the Council of State.

Assafuah asserts that any process started without her input violates her right to a fair hearing. This makes the process legally void in his view.

He requests a declaration stating that failing to notify the Chief Justice violates her rights under Articles 23 and 296. This failure renders the removal consultation processes initiated by the President null and void.

The Attorney General must respond within 14 days. After this, the court will decide how to proceed with the case.