The Progressive People’s Party (PPP) has backed President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to suspend the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Gertrude Esaaba Torkonoo, describing the move as lawful and consistent with due process.
The suspension, announced on Tuesday, April 22, followed the President’s determination that a prima facie case had been established against the Chief Justice.
This was based on three separate petitions seeking her removal from office.
The decision was taken in accordance with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution, and in consultation with the Council of State.
A statement from the Presidency, signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, also confirmed the establishment of a committee to investigate the petitions.
Reacting to the development in a statement dated April 28, the PPP said the action was constitutionally grounded.
“We wish to reiterate our firm belief that the suspension, as executed by the President, was lawful and in full compliance with the due process of law as enshrined in our 1992 Constitution,” the party stated.
The PPP explained that due process includes following established procedures, upholding the rule of law, and protecting the rights of individuals, all of which, they said, were observed in the President’s handling of the matter.
They also noted that the Chief Justice was given an opportunity to respond to the petitions before the suspension was announced.
“Therefore, the PPP maintains its position that no constitutional provisions have been breached by the President in the matter of the current Chief Justice. We call upon all parties to remain calm and allow the constitutional processes to proceed without hindrance,” the party stressed.
