Various opposition parties in Ghana have united under one banner to fight what they describe as the unlawful suspension of Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.
A joint statement issued by the parties accused the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of a calculated attempt to undermine and intimidate the judiciary.
In a final rallying cry, the group warned of creeping tyranny and called on the so-called “silent majority” to rise.
“To remain indifferent is to endorse the rise of an authoritarian state. Be a citizen, not a spectator. Stand for democracy. Oppose dictatorship.”
According to the presidency communication signed by the Minister of Government Communication, John Mahama suspended the Chief Justice following a prima facie case being determined against her by the Council of State.
Part of the statement read, “President John Dramani Mahama has, in accordance with Article 146(6) of the Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State, determined that a prima facie case has been established in respect of three petitions against the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.
The President has consequently, established a committee in compliance with Article 146(6) of the Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State with the following composition to inquire into the petitions which have been referred to them”.
The committee is composed as follows:
Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, Justice of the Supreme Court – Chairman
Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu Asiedu, Justice of the Supreme Court – Member
Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Former Auditor-General – Member
Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, Ghana Armed Forces – Member
Professor James Sefah Dzisah, Associate Professor, University of Ghana – Member
Meanwhile, the specific allegations contained in the petitions have not been publicly disclosed.
