Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has strongly criticised the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, calling it an attack on Ghana’s democratic values.
Speaking to journalists in Akwatia on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, Afenyo-Markin questioned the integrity of the Pwamang Committee, which investigated petitions against the Chief Justice and recommended her dismissal.
He argued the committee acted prematurely by concluding its work after reviewing only one count of the petition, while other allegations were still pending.
“We are mourning democracy,” he lamented. “You claim you have charges against the Chief Justice. You are done with count one, counts two and three are not concluded, and then you dismiss the person. That is the work of the Pwamang Committee? That is what Pwamang did as a judge?”
His remarks follow President John Mahama’s announcement on Monday, September 1, that Justice Torkornoo had been removed after the committee found her guilty of misconduct. The decision has sparked fierce debate, with critics accusing the government of rushing the process and undermining judicial independence.
Former Attorney-General Nii Ayikoi Otoo has also defended the former Chief Justice, insisting that she committed no wrongdoing and that her travel entitlements were consistent with established judicial policy.
Justice Torkornoo, who was appointed in June 2023, previously described the committee’s proceedings as a “mockery of justice,” alleging violations of her rights.
The controversy over her removal is expected to dominate political and legal discourse in the coming days, as the Minority insists due process was ignored and democracy compromised.
