Accra, Ghana – May 5th May 2025
A coalition of Ghana’s political parties is demanding the immediate reinstatement of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, calling her suspension by President John Mahama unconstitutional and a dangerous step toward judicial politicization.
In a public petition released Monday, the Coalition of Political Parties—including the New Patriotic Party (NPP), National Democratic Party (NDP), Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), and People’s National Party (PNP)—accused the presidency of violating constitutional provisions in the ongoing investigation against the Chief Justice.
“Suspending the Chief Justice without observing the procedures in Articles 146 and 296 of the Constitution undermines public trust in the judiciary,” the petition states.
The coalition described the judiciary as the last line of defense for citizens’ rights and democracy, warning that unilateral actions by the executive branch pose a threat to the independence of the courts.
Allegations of Bias in Investigative Process
The group also questioned the neutrality of the investigative committee tasked with probing the Chief Justice. It singled out Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, the committee’s chair, as having authored a ruling central to one of the petitions under review—making his impartiality, they argue, untenable.
“For justice to be done, it must also be seen to be done,” the statement reads. “The appointment of Justice Pwamang casts a long shadow of bias.”
The coalition called for the investigative process to be suspended immediately and the committee reconstituted to ensure compliance with constitutional safeguards.
Fears of Judicial ‘Packing’ and Third Term Agenda
Beyond the immediate case, the coalition expressed concern over what it describes as broader efforts by the presidency to influence the judiciary.
The petition addresses growing public suspicion that these actions could be laying the groundwork for a reinterpretation of Article 66(2) of the Constitution, which could potentially open the door for a third presidential term.
“We call on the President to categorically deny any intention to pursue or benefit from such a constitutional reinterpretation,” the coalition urged.
Calls for Leadership and Constitutional Fidelity
The petition echoes concerns raised in recent weeks by the Ghana Bar Association, civil society organizations, and organized labour groups, who have criticized what they see as an erosion of judicial independence.
“This is not a partisan matter,” the coalition asserted. “Today, it is Chief Justice Torkornoo. Tomorrow, it could be any judge who dares to uphold the Constitution without fear or favor.”
The coalition concluded with a direct appeal to President Akufo-Addo to uphold his oath of office and protect Ghana’s democratic legacy.
“History has its eyes on all of us. Ghana must not descend into a state where justice is shaped to serve political ends.”
The petition has been widely shared across social media platforms, sparking renewed national debate about the balance of power between the executive and the judiciary.
