Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has condemned the recent suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, describing it as a troubling shift from established democratic practices and warning that it could have long-term consequences for Ghana’s judiciary and democratic stability.
Speaking at a demonstration organised by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and other allied groups on Monday, May 5, Afenyo-Markin criticised what he called a deviation from constitutional procedures regarding judicial appointments.
“You know the process of appointing judges to the Supreme Court is not what has been used. So this reset is a negative reset,” he said, urging staff within the judicial service to remain vigilant and not take their roles for granted.
His comments come amid growing concern over the implications of the Chief Justice’s suspension by President John Mahama. The move has drawn criticism from opposition parties and legal commentators who view it as a potential attack on judicial independence.
Afenyo-Markin also used the platform to appeal for an end to political retribution and cycles of revenge that he fears could damage the country’s democratic fabric.
“I also want to take this opportunity… to draw the attention of the nation to come to terms with the fact that there must be an end to bitterness. If this vicious cycle of ‘you did it to me, I will do it to you’ continues, there will be no further hope for our democracy,” he said.
