Ghana’s Judiciary Under Fire: Opposition Protests Suspension of Chief Justice

On May 5, 2025, Accra witnessed a significant political demonstration as Ghana’s opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) and allied parties rallied against the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. The protest, marked by red attire symbolizing urgency and defiance, commenced at the Supreme Court, proceeded to Parliament, and culminated at the Jubilee House, where petitions were submitted at each stop.  

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The suspension, enacted by President John Mahama on April 22, followed the initiation of an investigative committee in response to three undisclosed petitions alleging misconduct. While the government asserts adherence to constitutional provisions, opposition leaders, including NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, contend that the move undermines judicial independence and sets a perilous precedent.  

The coalition of protesting parties, encompassing the Liberal Party of Ghana, National Democratic Party, and People’s National Party, among others, views the suspension as a politically motivated act that threatens the integrity of Ghana’s democratic institutions. They have vowed to continue their demonstrations until the Chief Justice is reinstated and judicial autonomy is safeguarded. 

In the interim, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, the most senior member of the Supreme Court, has assumed the role of Acting Chief Justice. The situation remains tense, with the potential for further political unrest as the opposition mobilizes support for their cause. 

This unfolding scenario underscores the delicate balance between governmental authority and judicial independence in Ghana, highlighting the need for transparent processes and adherence to constitutional principles to maintain public trust in democratic governance.