Opposition lawmakers in Ghana have condemned the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, accusing President John Mahama of undermining judicial independence in what they describe as an attempt to fill the courts with pro-government judges.
The unprecedented move marks the first time in Ghana’s history that a sitting chief justice has been suspended. It follows the submission of three undisclosed petitions alleging misconduct by Justice Torkornoo, with two additional petitions reportedly filed after the suspension.
The presidency announced on Tuesday that the suspension was necessary to allow a thorough investigation of the allegations. A five-member committee has been appointed to probe the matter. However, critics argue the decision violates due process, noting that the president initially failed to share the petitions with the chief justice—a legal requirement that was only fulfilled after the suspension was enforced.
“This is a reckless abuse of executive power and a direct assault on the independence of the judiciary,” said opposition MPs in a strongly worded statement, describing the move as a “judicial coup.”
Former Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame called the development “the biggest assault on the judiciary in the nation’s history.”
Ms. Torkornoo, Ghana’s third female chief justice and a nominee of former President Nana Akufo-Addo, has yet to publicly respond. She has previously faced criticism from some quarters over high-profile rulings that opponents claim favored Akufo-Addo’s party, including a controversial decision last year declaring the speaker’s removal of four MPs as unconstitutional.
Supporters of the suspension, however, argue it is necessary to restore credibility in the judiciary. Former ambassador Dr. Tony Aidoo told Joy News: “If there’s a stench in the room, you have to let in fresh air.”
Ghana’s constitution permits the removal of a chief justice only on grounds such as incompetence or misconduct. Until now, all previous chief justices have left office through retirement.
As the political drama unfolds, many Ghanaians are watching closely, fearing the long-term implications for the country’s democratic institutions.
