The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has called on President John Dramani Mahama to be guided by constitutional principles in the matter involving the suspension and investigations into the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
In a statement dated Tuesday, July 22, 2025, the Bishop of Sunyani and President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, Most Rev Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, emphasised that while the need for due process is acknowledged, it must be carried out in accordance with constitutional principles and without compromising judicial independence.
“It is in this critical regard that we view the current tensions arising from the suspension of the Chief Justice. While acknowledging the necessity of due process, we caution strenuously against any action, perceived or actual, that could compromise the independence or impartiality of the judiciary,” portions of the statement read.
The group underscored that for the nation to enjoy a healthy and functional democracy, it must uphold independence, particularly through a credible judiciary that fosters public confidence and remains free from political interference.
The group warned that the process to remove the Chief Justice could set a troubling precedent in which the executive exerts control over the judiciary — a development they assert could erode public trust.
“The removal of a sitting Chief Justice is a matter of profound national significance. This process must be scrupulously guided by constitutional principles, absolute procedural fairness, and a clear respect for the doctrine of the separation of powers. Any precedent that appears to place the judiciary at the mercy of the executive risks irreparably eroding public trust in the very institution citizens rely upon for justice,” it continued.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference has, therefore, called on all individuals involved in the removal process to act in accordance with and uphold the rule of law.
“In the light of these grave concerns, we urge all stakeholders to act with the utmost conscientiousness, safeguarding both the inviolable rule of law and the dignity of the judiciary,” it urged.
