Former New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer aspirant, Kwabena Agyepong, has strongly criticised President John Dramani Mahama for suspending Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, describing the move as unnecessary and potentially politically motivated.
His comments follow the Chief Justice’s suspension on Tuesday, April 22, after a prima facie case was established in connection with three petitions submitted by private citizen Daniel Ofori, senior police officer Ayamga Akolgo, and the civic group Shining Stars of Ghana.
President Mahama, acting under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State, formed a five-member committee to investigate the matter.
The decision has drawn widespread criticism, including from the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), which has called for the suspension to be revoked.
Speaking in an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Channel One TV’s Face to Face, Agyepong said the removal attempt lacked sufficient justification.
“I think it is very unfortunate. I think the very idea of removing the Chief Justice is not something that he should do. Unless there’s something seriously wrong, and so far, I haven’t seen that,” he said.
He also questioned the timing and motive behind the move, suggesting that it may have been politically premeditated.
Agyepong cautioned that the President’s action could undermine confidence in the judiciary and the rule of law, stating, “I think they have put themselves in a situation. They started mentioning it even during the 2024 campaign. When he was addressing NDC lawyers, it presupposes that this was premeditated and prejudged.
“I think it’s unnecessary opprobrium he [Mahama] has brought upon himself; it’s not necessary. Unless she [Gertrude Torkornoo] has done something really drastic, and I don’t see those things.”
Reverse suspension of Chief Justice immediately – GBA to Mahama
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