New Patriotic Party (NPP), joined by a coalition of allied political groups, stages a massive protest against what it calls a “politically engineered assault” on Ghana’s judiciary following the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
The protest, expected to draw thousands to the capital’s streets, is in response to what the NPP and its allies describe as a blatant act of political interference orchestrated by elements within the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC). Demonstrators are calling for the immediate reinstatement of the Chief Justice and demanding accountability from the government.
“This is not just about one judge. It’s about the soul of our democracy,” said NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, rallying supporters ahead of the march. “If we let this stand, no judge will be safe from political vengeance.”
The protest has united a rare coalition of political groups including the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), National Democratic Party (NDP), People’s National Party (PNP), and Ghana Union Movement (GUM). These parties have described the suspension as a “calculated and dangerous interference” in Ghana’s judicial independence, warning that today’s action is only the beginning of a broader resistance.
“This violates the law, undermines public confidence, and weakens the very pillars of justice in our country,” said a joint statement issued by the coalition.
The move to suspend Chief Justice Torkornoo has sharply divided public opinion. Supporters of the protest argue it is a necessary stand in defense of judicial autonomy. However, critics accuse the NPP of politicizing legal processes and using street demonstrations to preempt legitimate institutional review.
Adding to the controversy, the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has condemned the suspension, labelling it unconstitutional and demanding an immediate reversal. Yet, not all legal experts agree. Dr. John Osae-Kwapong of the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) urged restraint.
“While the situation is undoubtedly tense, it remains within the bounds of constitutional procedure. Let the institutions work,” he stated.
With general elections just months away, today’s protest could mark a critical flashpoint in Ghana’s political climate. Security agencies have announced heightened police presence throughout the capital, with traffic diversions and crowd control measures in place to prevent potential unrest.