On the latest edition of JoyNews’ Newsfile, three critical national topics took center stage: the growing controversy around the potential removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo, the internal review of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 electoral defeat, and the government’s ongoing battle against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
The show opened with a focus on the Chief Justice issue. The NPP has publicly called on legal professionals, including judges and the Ghana Bar Association, to firmly resist any efforts aimed at ousting Chief Justice Torkonoo. This comes amid increasing political tensions and public debate about her performance and role. The party views the removal calls as potentially harmful to the independence of the judiciary and the democratic fabric of the country.
The second segment of the program shifted attention to the NPP’s internal election review. Following its loss in the 2024 general elections, the party has compiled a report analyzing what led to its defeat. However, NPP’s Director of Communications, Richard Ahiagba, recently stated that the contents of this report will not be made public. This decision has sparked curiosity and debate, with many questioning what insights and lessons the party is drawing from its electoral loss, and whether transparency could help rebuild public confidence as the NPP prepares for the next elections.
The third major topic addressed was the escalating galamsey crisis. Despite increased operations and arrests by authorities, including large-scale raids near Samreboi, the problem remains widespread. Civil Society Organisations have been vocal in demanding that the President declare a state of emergency to protect Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves. The show’s panelists examined why, despite the severity of environmental degradation, such a drastic measure has not been taken. They explored the effectiveness of the government’s response and raised concerns about long-term environmental and public health impacts.
Each of these issues — judicial independence, electoral accountability, and environmental protection — is seen as a reflection of broader systemic challenges Ghana faces today. Newsfile continues to serve as a platform for expert analysis and debate, helping to inform citizens on critical national affairs.
The episode underscored the need for transparency, rule of law, and firm political will to address the country’s most pressing issues. As Ghana navigates through these complex challenges, public discourse remains vital in holding institutions accountable and ensuring progress.