A former Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Catherine Afeku, has condemned the suspension of the Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo.

Addressing the gathering at the Save the Judiciary Demo on Monday, May 5, 2025, she stated that such actions erode public trust in democratic institutions in the country.

"The judiciary should operate independently to ensure that one receives a fair hearing when your case is presented in court. It is essential for the judiciary to maintain strong independence. We need the judiciary to be fiercely independent.

"Women of Ghana, rise up and pray for Chief Justice Torkornoo, as what impacts one woman impacts us all," she remarked.

The NPP and a coalition of political parties, including the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), National Democratic Party (NDP), People’s National Party (PNP) staged a protest on Monday, May 5, 2025, in response to the suspension of the Chief Justice, following the determination of a prima facie case in the three petitions asking for the removal from office.

Protestors have described the suspension of the Chief Justice as an interference in the judiciary, warning that it undermines the independence of the judiciary.

Following the suspension of the Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has assumed the role as Acting Chief Justice in line with Article 144(6) of the 1992 Constitution.

The provision stipulates that the most senior Justice on the Supreme Court shall act as Chief Justice if the position becomes vacant or the substantive Chief Justice is unable to perform his or her functions.

JKB/AE


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