Afenyo-Markin Slams Suspension of Chief Justice Torkonoo as Threat to Judicial Independence

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has condemned President John Mahama’s suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo, calling the move a “negative reset” that undermines judicial independence. Speaking at a May 5 demonstration by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and its allies, Afenyo-Markin argued that efforts to remove the Chief Justice threaten Ghana’s democracy. He called the petitions against her “flimsy” and accused the Council of State of failing the country by supporting the suspension.

Afenyo-Markin stressed the importance of an impartial judiciary, warning judicial staff not to be swayed by political influence. He also criticized the government’s hypocrisy in expanding the Supreme Court while questioning the appointment process for new judges. Lastly, he cautioned against political vengeance, urging judicial staff to consider the long-term impact of partisan actions on the country’s democratic future.