The Movement for Change (MFC) has firmly upheld the legality of President John Mahama’s decision to suspend Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, asserting that due process is being meticulously followed in reviewing petitions for her removal.
In a statement issued on Monday, the political group emphasized that the President’s actions strictly comply with the 1992 Constitution, specifically Article 146, which outlines the procedure for removing superior court judges.
“The Constitution is the foundation of our democracy, and every step taken thus far aligns with its provisions,” the MFC stated. “The President acted on the advice of the Council of State after a prima facie case was established, demonstrating adherence to constitutional protocol.”
The group described the ongoing process as a model of judicial fairness, noting that the Chief Justice has been granted the right to respond to the allegations—a fundamental aspect of natural justice.
“From the formation of a five-member investigative committee to the temporary suspension, each action is firmly rooted in Ghana’s constitutional framework,” the statement read.
Call for Impartiality and Caution Against Politicization
The MFC urged the committee to conduct its inquiry with integrity, free from external influence. It also cautioned against attempts by political actors—particularly the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC)—to exploit the situation, warning that such interference could erode public trust in the outcome.
“The rule of law must prevail without bias,” the group stressed. “No individual, regardless of position—be it the President, the Speaker of Parliament, or the Chief Justice—is exempt from accountability.”
Push for Greater Transparency in Future Proceedings
While acknowledging public concerns over the opacity of the process, the MFC clarified that current constitutional provisions do not require open hearings. However, it advocated for future reforms to enhance transparency in similar cases, urging the Constitutional Review Committee to consider amendments that would promote openness.
As the investigation unfolds, the MFC appealed for calm, urging citizens to respect the legal process and refrain from politicizing the matter.
“Ghana’s democracy thrives when laws are applied fairly and consistently to all,” the statement concluded. “This moment tests our commitment to justice—let us uphold it without fear or favor.”
The statement serves as both a defense of due process and a call to safeguard Ghana’s democratic principles amid heightened political scrutiny.
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