Mahama’s Attempt To Remove CJ Undermines Democratic Principles – Ahiagbah
Director of Communications of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah, has condemned what he describes as a direct threat to Ghana’s democratic foundations by President John Dramani Mahama concerning ongoing efforts to remove Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo from office.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, April 19, Ahiagbah questioned both the intent and implications of the President’s decision, insisting that the move defies the logic of democratic governance.
“I think this president is taking an intended or unintended aim at the core of our democracy. This whole business of trying to remove the Chief Justice cannot be apologized for, and nobody can convince me that it makes any democratic sense, in terms of the practice and the furtherance of democracy in our country.
“Removing the Chief Justice does not make any rational sense. On that account, I will say that his administration has performed poorly on that score. What brought them into power is the democracy, and if they are aiming to affect that, for me, it cannot be excused,” he added.
His comments come amid increasing political and legal attention on the petition process involving the Chief Justice.
This follows President Mahama’s formal decision to refer a petition for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo to the Council of State in accordance with constitutional requirements. The move triggered a swift response from the Chief Justice, who officially requested access to the contents of the petitions filed against her.
In response to her request, President Mahama granted the Chief Justice a 10-day period within which to present her written defence.
Reliable sources have confirmed that Chief Justice Torkornoo submitted her response ahead of the April 7, 2025, deadline, forwarding it to both the President and the Council of State.
With the Chief Justice’s response now officially submitted, the Council of State is expected to begin its review to determine whether the petition holds sufficient merit to warrant further proceedings.
Source: citinewsroom.com
