Sammy Gyamfi, Acting CEO of the Ghana Gold Board, has accused the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) of hypocrisy and political bias in its opposition to President John Dramani Mahama’s suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. Gyamfi described the GBA’s stance as “ridiculous, mischievous, and disgraceful,” arguing that the President’s action was lawful and grounded in Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution.

Allegations of Double Standards
Gyamfi questioned the GBA’s consistency, citing its silence during similar actions under the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government. He specifically mentioned the suspension of Justice Paul Uuter Dery and three other High Court judges under Article 146(10) by President Akufo-Addo, noting that the GBA remained silent then but is now vocal in its opposition to President Mahama’s decision.

GBA’s Concerns Over Constitutional Safeguards
The GBA had argued that the President’s decision to suspend the Chief Justice infringes on constitutional provisions, specifically Article 296(c), which requires fairness and non-arbitrariness in the exercise of discretionary power. However, Gyamfi dismissed this claim as “legally unfounded and clearly politically motivated.”

Background
Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo was suspended by President Mahama following the establishment of a prima facie case in three petitions asking for her removal from office for stated misbehavior and incompetence. A five-member committee has been formed to handle the inquiry in camera ¹.

Reactions
Gyamfi’s comments have sparked a debate about the GBA’s role in ensuring the independence of the judiciary and its perceived bias towards certain political parties. The controversy surrounding the suspension of the Chief Justice highlights the complex relationship between the executive and judicial branches of government in Ghana.