The suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Sackey Torkornoo has sparked concerns about the potential impact on Ghana’s judiciary and democracy. Frank Davies, Director of Legal Affairs for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has described the move as “an assault on the judiciary.”
According to Mr. Davies, the suspension sets a worrying precedent. “This is the first time a Chief Justice has been suspended in Ghana’s democratic history,” he said. While Article 146 of the Constitution allows for the suspension, Mr. Davies emphasized that the perception of fairness is crucial.
Mr. Davies expressed concerns about the potential erosion of public trust in the judiciary. “If the Chief Justice can be suspended like this, what happens to other judges?” he asked. “This is not just about laws. It’s about how people see and trust our justice system.”
The President has established a five-member committee to investigate allegations against the Chief Justice. The committee comprises members from legal, academic, military, and public service backgrounds.
Mr. Davies urged caution, warning that the suspension could have far-reaching consequences. “Today it’s the Chief Justice. Tomorrow, it could be any judge. We must be careful not to go down a dangerous path,” he said.
In his view, the suspension highlights the need to protect the independence of the judiciary. Mr. Davies stressed that the distinction between following the Constitution and using it for political purposes is crucial in this matter.
“There’s a difference between following the Constitution and using it for political reasons,” he said.