Frank Davies, Director of Legal Affairs for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has voiced serious concerns about the growing politicization surrounding discussions on the potential removal of Ghana’s Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo.
Speaking during an appearance on JoyNews’ Newsfile program, Mr. Davies stressed that although the Ghanaian constitution permits the removal of a Chief Justice under certain conditions, the way the current situation is being handled could pose a threat to the country’s legal integrity and democratic principles.
He clarified that the removal itself is not the fundamental issue. Instead, he emphasized that it is the approach to the matter — particularly how it is being framed in the public domain — that is troubling. “It’s not the removal, per se, of a Chief Justice which is the problem,” he said. “It is a constitutional process, and if citizens have a legitimate basis to call for the Chief Justice’s removal, that process must be respected and allowed to unfold within legal boundaries.”
However, Mr. Davies highlighted what he described as a dangerous trend: increasing political interference and partisanship clouding what should be a clear, law-driven process. He expressed his dismay at how the discourse around the Chief Justice’s fate has been overwhelmed by political spin and emotionally charged narratives, often fueled by individuals who, in his view, should know better.
“For me, the aberration is when the issues are so muddied and there’s a persistent refrain by people who should know better. That is where the worry is,” he stated, cautioning that such conduct risks undermining public trust in democratic institutions and the judicial process.
He further appealed for respect for the rule of law and urged all stakeholders to allow the proper legal procedures to guide the outcome, rather than attempting to manipulate the constitutional process for political advantage.
Davies’ comments come at a time when public and political debate surrounding the Chief Justice’s future has become increasingly heated. Reports have emerged indicating that a majority in regions like Western North, Bono, and Volta support the Chief Justice’s removal, adding more tension to an already sensitive matter.
As the controversy continues to unfold, legal experts and political commentators alike are calling for clarity, objectivity, and adherence to constitutional principles to ensure that justice and democratic stability are upheld.
Total Comments: 0