The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has sounded the alarm over the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, cautioning that this move threatens to undermine the judiciary’s independence and impartiality amidst rising political tensions. The suspension, executed by President John Dramani Mahama following a prima facie case established in petitions seeking her removal, has sparked concerns about the potential for political interference in the judiciary.
In a strongly worded statement, the Bishops emphasized the critical role of justice in maintaining national cohesion, warning that without it, grievances can escalate into violence. “Justice is the indispensable cornerstone of national cohesion; without it, grievances fester and violence finds fertile ground,” they stated.
While acknowledging the importance of due process, the Bishops expressed concern over the potential erosion of public trust in the judiciary, stressing the need to safeguard judicial independence. “We view the current tensions arising from the suspension of the Chief Justice with serious concern,” they stated.
The Bishops also condemned recent electoral violence, including the incident in the Ablekuma North Constituency, where citizens and journalists were brutally attacked. They called for prompt and transparent investigations, implementation of past electoral reform recommendations, and a depoliticized approach from both political parties and state institutions.
Reiterating their commitment to peace and democratic integrity, the Bishops urged all stakeholders, particularly the Electoral Commission and security agencies, to act with impartiality and foresight as the nation approaches future electoral contests.
Meanwhile, Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has filed a new application at the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice in Abuja, Nigeria, seeking redress over her suspension and the process initiated for her potential removal from office. According to Deputy Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Justice Srem-Sai, the Chief Justice alleges human rights violations, arguing that her suspension occurred without a final determination of the petitions filed against her.
“Essentially, Her Ladyship argues that by her suspension, she has effectively been removed from her official capacity without a final determination, impairing her right to function and serve in a position she was constitutionally appointed to,” Srem-Sai stated.
