Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has issued a passionate call for the judiciary to assert its independence and resist political interference, following the controversial suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo by President John Dramani Mahama.
Addressing a crowd during a New Patriotic Party (NPP)-led protest on Monday, May 5, Afenyo-Markin painted the current situation as a critical test for Ghana’s democratic institutions, particularly the judiciary. Rather than focusing solely on political backlash, he centered his message on institutional integrity, urging judicial officers to rise above partisan pressure and defend the sanctity of their roles.
“This isn’t just about Chief Justice Torkornoo,” Afenyo-Markin said. “It’s about protecting the very institution of justice in Ghana. If today it is her, tomorrow it could be you.”
He expressed deep concern over what he termed as “a dangerous trend of political reprisals” and criticised the Council of State for validating what he described as baseless petitions against the Chief Justice. In his view, such actions erode public confidence and turn the judiciary into a political target.
Highlighting the long-term consequences, Afenyo-Markin warned judicial officers not to be swayed by short-term personal gains such as promotions or political favours. “Silence today could cost you your dignity tomorrow,” he cautioned.
The Minority Leader also condemned what he sees as double standards by the Mahama administration, particularly in judicial appointments. He criticised the government’s earlier disapproval of the Supreme Court’s expansion, only to now appoint several judges under questionable procedures.
Afenyo-Markin’s address focused less on immediate political rivalry and more on national responsibility, calling for an end to retaliatory governance and urging all stakeholders to prioritise democratic stability over partisan interests.
“Let us break the cycle of political vengeance,” he said. “We owe it to posterity to protect our institutions, not weaponise them.”
As the protest concluded with the submission of a petition to Parliament, the broader message was clear: the judiciary must reclaim its neutrality—and all Ghanaians, regardless of political leanings, must defend that principle.
