In a fiery escalation of political tensions, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has launched a blistering critique of the Council of State, accusing the advisory body of complicity in what he calls a politically driven suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
At a press conference held ahead of a major protest planned for Monday, May 5, Afenyo-Markin claimed the suspension of the Chief Justice was not only premeditated but also part of a broader scheme by the Mahama-led administration to undermine the judiciary’s independence.
“The Council of State has failed in its constitutional duty to act as a non-partisan guardian of democratic principles,” he declared. “Instead, it has become an accessory to the politicization of the judiciary.”
The Minority Leader painted a grim picture of executive overreach, warning that a dangerous precedent is being set by what he termed a “systematic assault on the judiciary.” He accused the government of using appointments, intimidation, and selective targeting of judges to bend the courts to its will.
“This is not democracy. This is executive overreach dressed up as reform,” Afenyo-Markin said. “We are witnessing the erosion of judicial independence—the last safeguard of our democracy.”
The Minority Caucus has called on Ghanaians from all political persuasions to join their protest on May 5, describing the demonstration as a crucial stand for the rule of law, constitutional order, and the integrity of the bench.
“This is not just a partisan issue,” Afenyo-Markin emphasized. “This is about protecting the soul of our Republic.”
