Council of State aided plot to oust Chief Justice – Minority Leader
Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin has launched a scathing attack on the Council of State, accusing it of aiding what he described as a calculated and politically motivated suspension of Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of a planned multi-party protest on Monday, May 5, Afenyo-Markin alleged that the Chief Justice’s suspension was deliberately orchestrated by the government with backing from the Council of State.
“The current attacks on the Chief Justice and the broader attempt to politicize the bench must be seen for what they are. And here our Council of State failed our democracy,” he said.
He warned that the integrity of the judiciary is under serious threat, citing what he described as a pattern of executive interference and strategic appointments aimed at consolidating political control over the courts.
“I, on behalf of the Minority Caucus, hereby say that what we are witnessing today under the John Mahama-led government is a systematic and calculated assault on the independence of the judiciary—an institution we all know is the last line of defence for the rule of law, the protection of rights, and the survival of our democratic Republic.
“Today what we see is intimidation, political interference and open targeting of judges who are perceived inconvenient and non-compliant. This is not just unacceptable, it is repugnant to good conscience,” he said.
The Minority is rallying public support for its May 5 protest, insisting the rule of law, separation of powers, and constitutional order are at stake.
