Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has defended the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo by President John Dramani Mahama, calling it a constitutional obligation rather than a controversial or politically motivated move.
In a recent interview with Citi Newsroom, Kwakye Ofosu made it clear that the President was simply fulfilling his constitutional duties.
He said, “I’m not sure how abiding by the Constitution becomes a bad precedent. President Mahama took an oath to stay true and loyal and abide by the 1992 Constitution. That is what he has done in this instance.”
According to Kwakye Ofosu, the President’s decision to suspend the Chief Justice came after the establishment of a prima facie case following three separate petitions that called for her removal.
He explained that the suspension was carried out in line with Article 146(6) of the Constitution, which requires such actions to be taken after consultations with the Council of State.
“The suspension is not a declaration of guilt. Rather, it is part of the legal process required to address serious petitions made against public figures, including the Chief Justice,” Kwakye Ofosu clarified.
Following the suspension, a five-member committee has been set up to thoroughly examine the allegations against Justice Torkornoo, adhering to the proper constitutional procedure.
Kwakye Ofosu emphasized that this committee would ensure transparency, fairness, and due process for everyone involved, including the Chief Justice herself.
In his defense of the President’s actions, Kwakye Ofosu reiterated that the constitutional pathway ensures that all processes are followed in a fair and transparent manner.
He stated that there was no ulterior political motive behind the suspension, and that the President was simply fulfilling his role as outlined in the Constitution.
This comes after a wave of criticism from various political figures, including Rev. Ntim Fordjour, who has suggested that the suspension is politically motivated and threatens the independence of the judiciary.
However, Kwakye Ofosu’s statement firmly defends the President’s actions as constitutional and necessary to maintain legal and procedural integrity.
