#Suspension of Ghana’s Chief Justice: A Call for Structural Reforms

By: Alexander Afriyie
The suspension of Ghana’s Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, by President John Mahama has sparked intense debate, with governance expert Prof. Baffour Agyemang-Duah weighing in on the matter. According to Prof. Agyemang-Duah, President Mahama acted within the remits of the law, as supported by Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, Acting CEO of the National Petroleum Authority and NDC Director of Legal Affairs.
However, Prof. Agyemang-Duah emphasizes the need for structural reforms in the country’s governance institutions. He aligns himself with former President Mahama’s call for immediate reforms in the judiciary, stressing that such reforms should extend to the executive and legislature as well. This sentiment echoes the general demand for constitutional review, highlighting the necessity to revise the constitution to address issues plaguing the judiciary and other branches of government.
The Suspension Controversy
The suspension of Chief Justice Torkornoo follows three separate petitions alleging misconduct, including tampering with court records and misuse of public funds. While the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has questioned the legality of the suspension, citing the absence of clear regulations guiding presidential discretion, Prof. Agyemang-Duah’s stance suggests that President Mahama’s actions were constitutional.
Calls for Comprehensive Reforms
Prof. Agyemang-Duah’s call for structural reforms underscores the need for a more comprehensive approach to addressing Ghana’s governance challenges. By reforming the constitution and promoting transparency and accountability, Ghana can build stronger institutions and ensure the independence of the judiciary. This perspective is shared by many who believe that such reforms are essential for the country’s progress.
Key Points in the Debate
– Constitutional Action: President Mahama’s decision to suspend the Chief Justice is seen as constitutional by Prof. Agyemang-Duah and Godwin Edudzi Tameklo.
– Judicial Reforms: The need for immediate reforms in the judiciary, as called for by former President Mahama, is supported by Prof. Agyemang-Duah.
– Structural Changes: Comprehensive reforms extending to the executive and legislature are deemed necessary to address governance challenges.
– Petitions Against the Chief Justice: Allegations of misconduct, including tampering with court records and misuse of public funds, have been made against Chief Justice Torkornoo. Alexander Afriyie