A protest march, organised by Ghana’s opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) and dubbed “Save the Judiciary,” took place on Monday, demanding the reinstatement of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
Led by Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the protesters presented a petition accusing President John Dramani Mahama of undermining judicial independence for partisan purposes. Mr. Afenyo-Markin described the President’s suspension of the Chief Justice as “an attack on the very soul of Ghana’s democracy.”
“We are here not as party activists, but as concerned citizens empowered by the Constitution to protest blatant executive interference and intimidation of the judiciary,” he stated.
The NPP-led coalition, which includes the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), National Democratic Party (NDP), People’s National Party (PNP), and Ghana Union Movement (GUM), condemned the suspension as “an unprecedented attack on judicial independence.”
Mr. Afenyo-Markin warned of the potential long-term consequences of executive overreach, stating, “Don’t be comfortable today because the political winds favour you. This is about the soul of Ghana’s democracy. If the judiciary does not rise now, as it did during the era of Chief Justice Georgina Wood, we are heading down a dangerous path. Be guided by the principle: touch one, touch all.” He also criticised the Council of State, accusing it of merely “rubber-stamping” the President’s decision.
The Minority Leader further criticised the recent appointment of seven new Supreme Court justices by the Mahama administration, alleging that the move was rushed and politically motivated, bypassing established procedures.
Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo was suspended last month by President Mahama following the establishment of a prima facie case and a committee to investigate petitions seeking her removal. The presidency stated that the suspension, in accordance with Article 146(6) of the Constitution, followed consultations with the Council of State.
The coalition has called on the Judicial Service to swiftly defend the autonomy of the judiciary. They intend to send copies of their petition to Parliament and the Office of the President.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin concluded by urging judicial staff to act in defence of democracy, stating, “Let your conscience prick you. You must not wait to be victimised before you act. Ghana’s democracy is at stake—and history is watching.” Sources and related content
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