Ghanaians Protest Chief Justice’s Suspension, Accuse President of Power Grab

Hundreds of Ghanaians dressed in red and black took to the streets of Accra on Monday to protest the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, accusing President John Mahama of undermining judicial independence and violating the constitution.

Led by the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), demonstrators demanded Torkornoo’s immediate reinstatement and described her removal as a politically motivated attack on democracy. Protesters held banners that read “Stop silencing the judiciary” while voicing concerns over what they called a dangerous precedent.

Torkornoo was suspended last week after President Mahama received three petitions containing undisclosed allegations against her. It is the first time a sitting chief justice has been suspended in Ghana’s history. Critics argue that due process was not followed, despite the constitutional provision that allows the president to suspend or remove top judicial officers on grounds of misconduct or incompetence.

“The judiciary is under attack, and we want the right thing to be done,” protester Serwaa Akoto told the BBC. Another demonstrator, Charles Oteng, said the youth would not allow the president to “do whatever he wants.”

The Ghana Bar Association has also called the suspension unconstitutional, aligning with opposition parties in urging Mahama to reverse the decision.

Supporters of the president, however, maintain that the move is lawful and falls within the president’s authority. Torkornoo, who was appointed by former President Nana Akufo-Addo two years ago, has faced increasing criticism from the ruling National Democratic Congress over alleged bias in politically sensitive rulings—allegations she denies.

She is expected to appear before an investigative committee to respond to the accusations.