The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has formally called upon Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo to retract her recommendation to President Akufo-Addo regarding the appointment of new Supreme Court judges, citing concerns over constitutionality.
In a press statement released today, the opposition party expressed strong reservations about the Chief Justice’s recent letter advising President Akufo-Addo to nominate five judges to the Supreme Court. According to the NDC, such a recommendation represents a breach of constitutional norms and threatens the independence of the judiciary.
“The NDC urges Chief Justice Torkonoo to retract her recommendation to President Akufo-Addo for the appointment of new Supreme Court judges,” stated Fiifi Kwetey, the General Secretary of the NDC, during a media briefing.
“This action undermines the principles of judicial independence and could set a dangerous precedent for the politicization of Ghana’s judiciary.”
Kwetey emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional safeguards that ensure the judiciary operates free from political interference. He stressed that the appointment of judges to the highest court in the land should adhere strictly to meritocratic principles and due process, rather than being influenced by political agendas.
The controversy arose following Chief Justice Torkonoo’s letter dated May 30, 2024, recommending five individuals for appointment to the Supreme Court, including Justice Afia Serwaa Asare Botwe, who currently presides over significant legal proceedings.
In light of these developments, the NDC has called for a retraction of the recommendation and urged Chief Justice Torkonoo to uphold the judiciary’s role as an independent arbiter in Ghanaian democracy. The party underscored its commitment to safeguarding democratic institutions and ensuring they remain resilient against political interference.
As the debate unfolds, stakeholders continue to monitor the situation closely, recognizing the critical importance of maintaining judicial integrity and independence in Ghana. The NDC remains steadfast in its advocacy for transparent and constitutional processes in the appointment of judges, aiming to preserve the judiciary’s credibility and effectiveness in upholding justice.