Accra, May 5, 2025 – The New Patriotic Party (NPP), in a rare show of unity with other opposition parties, organized a mammoth demonstration through the streets of Accra in protest against what they describe as the unconstitutional suspension and attempted removal of the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
Thousands of demonstrators, clad in red and black, gathered as early as 6:00 a.m. at the Obra Spot near the Kwame Nkrumah Circle. By 7:00 a.m., the crowd had swelled, with protestors chanting slogans, holding placards bearing messages such as “Hands Off the Judiciary,” “Defend the Rule of Law,” and “Justice for Torkornoo.”
Petition to the Judiciary
The first stop of the protest was at the Supreme Court premises. A delegation comprising NPP Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin Communications Director , Richard Ahiagba , Stephen Amoah, MP for Nhyeaso, among others presented a petition to the Judicial Secretary on behalf of the Chief Justice. In the petition, the demonstrators demanded the immediate reinstatement of Justice Torkornoo, describing her suspension as “politically motivated” and a threat to judicial independence.
Engagement with Parliament
From there, the protesters marched to Parliament House under the protection of a heavily armed police escort.
Speakers at the Protest
Addressing the crowd at NPP MP for Nhyeaso constituency, Stephen Amoah also known as Sticker accused the current administration of undermining democratic institutions and warned of grave consequences if the situation is not reversed. “Today, it is the Chief Justice. Tomorrow, it could be any of us. We must defend the Constitution with all our might,” he said.
Police Presence and Public Order
The Ghana Police Service deployed a large contingent of officers to ensure order during the protest. Despite the massive turnout and the high political temperature, the event was largely peaceful, with no major incidents reported by midday.
Background
Justice Gertrude Torkornoo was suspended last week following an executive directive citing alleged “misconduct and judicial bias.” The move has sparked public outrage and drawn condemnation from civil society groups, bar associations, and international observers, many of whom view the suspension as a threat to Ghana’s democratic fabric.
