“No Breach of Law’—Constitutional Expert Justifies Mahama’s Move Against Chief Justice

Constitutional lawyer Raymond Bidema has come to the defence of President John Mahama over the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, dismissing claims of constitutional violations as reported by MyNewsGH. The suspension has stirred controversy, especially among Minority Members of Parliament, who argue that the President bypassed legal processes, particularly Article 296 of the 1992 Constitution. However, Bidema insists the action was in line with constitutional guidelines.

According to him, the process followed by the President is clearly stated under Article 146(6), which provides the framework for handling petitions against a sitting Chief Justice. “Once a prima facie case is established, it is the prerogative of the President to either suspend the Chief Justice or not, and that is anchored in the Constitution,” Bidema noted. He further argued that critics have misinterpreted the Constitution, overlooking the President’s constitutional role in such matters, particularly his duty to consult the Council of State before taking any action.



Despite Bidema’s defence, the move has drawn fierce opposition from the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Henry Nana Boakye, the party’s National Organizer, has hinted at plans for widespread protests against the suspension, describing it as politically driven. In a social media post, Boakye accused Mahama of attempting to undermine judicial independence.

“We must speak out, protest, agitate and demonstrate against Mahama’s evil agenda against the judiciary,” he wrote..