Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has criticised the Council of State, accusing it of failing to protect the government from making decisions that undermine judicial independence.
His remarks come after the Council of State, in the ongoing process to oust Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo, advised that a prima facie case had been established in the three petitions submitted to President John Dramani Mahama as grounds for the Chief Justice’s removal.
Based on this recommendation, the president subsequently constituted a five-member committee to investigate the matters raised in the petitions.
This development led to the suspension of the Chief Justice.
Speaking during the “Save the Judiciary” protest in Accra on Monday, May 5, 2025, Afenyo-Markin said the Council’s failure to offer sound counsel on the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo has deepened concerns about political interference in the judiciary.
“The judiciary is our last hope and we believe that what is happening undermines our democracy. For the Chief Justice to be singled out for this ‘unfortunate’ attack, flimsy pedestrian petition.
“The Council of State has failed the government and we want you as an institution to put aside your individual differences and know that it is your institution that is understated.
“Maybe today it is Torkonoo, tomorrow it may be you. You don’t serve at the whims and caprices of a political party and a government,” he said.
The protest, led by a New Patriotic Party (NPP)-aligned coalition, began at the Supreme Court and brought together party executives, Members of Parliament, and supporters.
The group is demanding that President Akufo-Addo revoke the suspension of the Chief Justice, describing it as a dangerous move that erodes the rule of law.
Afenyo-Markin, Nana B, other top NPP figures join ‘Save the Judiciary’ demo
