Suspension of Chief Justice could undermine democracy – Catholic Bishops

The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has expressed deep concern over the recent suspension of the Chief Justice, warning that the move risks compromising the independence and impartiality of the judiciary at a time of heightened political tension.

The Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, was suspended by President John Dramani Mahama, after a prima facie case was established in the petitions that were submitted to the president seeking her removal from office.

In a strongly worded statement issued from their national secretariat, the Bishops emphasised that the removal of the Chief Justice must not be used as a tool for political interference.

“Justice is the indispensable cornerstone of national cohesion; without it, grievances fester and violence finds fertile ground,” the statement read.

While acknowledging the importance of due process, the Bishops cautioned against any action—perceived or actual—that could erode public trust in the judiciary.

“We view the current tensions arising from the suspension of the Chief Justice with serious concern,” they stated, underscoring the critical need to safeguard judicial independence.

The statement also addressed recent electoral violence, notably the incident in the Ablekuma North Constituency, condemning the brutalisation of citizens and journalists.

The Bishops called for prompt and transparent investigations, implementation of past electoral reform recommendations, and a depoliticised, professional approach from both political parties and state institutions.

Reiterating their commitment to peace and democratic integrity, the Bishops called on all stakeholders—particularly the Electoral Commission and security agencies—to act with impartiality and foresight as the nation approaches future electoral contests.

On July 8, 2025, Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, who has publicly stated she is confronting a broken judicial system, filed a new application at the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice in Abuja, Nigeria, seeking redress over her suspension and the process initiated for her potential removal from office.

In a Facebook post on the same day, Deputy Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Justice Srem-Sai, disclosed that the Chief Justice had submitted the application to the ECOWAS Court on July 4.

According to him, the Chief Justice is alleging human rights violations, arguing that her suspension occurred without a final determination of the petitions filed against her.

“Essentially, Her Ladyship argues that by her suspension, she has effectively been removed from her official capacity without a final determination, impairing her right to function and serve in a position she was constitutionally appointed to,” Srem-Sai stated.