Suspension of CJ: Mahama won’t abandon his constitutional duty – Dr. Apaak to NPP

The Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, says the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo is lawful and proper.

This comes on the back of President John Dramani Mahama’s suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo following the establishment of a prima facie case in response to three separate petitions seeking her removal from office.

The decision, in line with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution and taken in consultation with the Council of State, was announced on Tuesday, April 22.

It marks a significant moment in Ghana’s judicial history, as the country’s top judge now faces a formal inquiry into her conduct.

However, there have been varied views on the move by the President, with some describing it as unconstitutional.

Former Member of Parliament for Akim Abuakwa South, Samuel Atta Akyea, described the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo as “unfortunate,” raising serious concerns about its legality under the 1992 Constitution.

“It is unfortunate. In my humble view, as you mentioned, Article 146, the president became president based on the constitution, and it is staring everybody in the face, including the president and the members of the Council of State.

“It is a breach before the Supreme Court, which is also defined in the constitution,” he stated on CitiFM.

But, the Builsa South lawmaker disagrees.

According to him, President Mahama acted within the constitution of the land.

“The suspension of the Chief Justice is lawful and proper. Did the NPP expect President John Dramani Mahama to abandon his constitutional duty? Certainly not”, Dr. Apaak tweeted.