The Minority Caucus in Parliament has thrown its weight behind the planned May 5 demonstration by opposition political parties against the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Esaaba Torkornoo.
The protest, being led by the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), National Democratic Party (NDP), People’s National Party (PNP), and other political groups, is described by the Caucus as more than just a political action—calling it a constitutional imperative.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, April 30, and signed by Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh, the lawmakers described the CJ’s suspension as a calculated effort to weaken the judiciary and lay the groundwork for a third-term bid by President John Dramani Mahama.
“The Minority Caucus in Parliament stands in firm solidarity with the political parties who have called for a nationwide demonstration on Monday, 5th May 2025 to defend our democracy,” the statement noted.
It added, “The Minority echoes those concerns that the suspension of the Chief Justice represents a direct assault on the progress made in our democratic governance and rule of law.
“It is an attempt to create an environment to conveniently reinterpret Article 66(2) of the Constitution—to pave the way for a third-term presidential bid by former President John Mahama. Such orchestrations are a clear abuse of the power and trust the people of Ghana place in the hands of the executive.”
Justice Torkornoo was suspended on Tuesday, April 22, by President Mahama following a prima facie case established through petitions and consultations with the Council of State.
The opposition parties have condemned the move, describing it as a blatant disregard for judicial independence and a dangerous precedent.
In a joint statement on April 25, the parties accused the ruling NDC of reviving a troubling pattern of political interference in the judiciary.
“We must not remain silent. This protest is a clarion call to all citizens: stand for justice, defend democracy, and protect our constitutional order,” it stressed.
