Former National Organizer aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and ex-Chairman of the NPP Diaspora Mobilization Team in Pennsylvania, USA, Bright Essilfie Kumi, has called on the leadership of the party to stay away from the ongoing trial involving Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
Speaking on Atinka TV’s Oman Mu Nsem program hosted by Nana Owoahene Acheampong, Mr. Essilfie Kumi emphasized that the trial is a purely legal matter and should be handled strictly within the confines of the law.
He cautioned against any political interference that may portray the Chief Justice as a partisan figure.
“Although the issue has political undertones, I believe the Chief Justice, with her vast legal expertise, can fight her own battle on the principles of law,” he noted.
Mr. Essilfie Kumi stressed that the NPP is a party deeply rooted in upholding the rule of law and defending the Constitution of Ghana, and must continue to exhibit that commitment. He warned that politicizing the case could undermine justice and tarnish the country’s democratic institutions.
“We must allow the three arms of government to operate independently, especially when it comes to sensitive matters involving the judiciary,” he said, adding that mutual respect among the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary is essential for the stability of the nation.
The former diaspora leader condemned attempts to politicize the judiciary, cautioning that the Supreme Court, as the apex legal body, must be shielded from political influence.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court sat on April 9, 2025, to deliberate on an injunction application related to the case. Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has categorically denied allegations of financial impropriety, describing the claims in the petition submitted to President John Mahama as unfounded and based on a fundamental misunderstanding of judicial service travel policies.
In a related development, the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has weighed in, urging strict adherence to constitutional procedures. In a statement issued on April 24 and signed by GBA National President Mrs. Efua Ghartey and National Secretary Mr. Kwaku Gyau Baffour, the GBA reaffirmed its commitment to defending judicial independence and the rule of law.
The Association cited Article 146(6)– (10) of the 1992 Constitution, which empowers the President, in consultation with the Council of State, to appoint a committee to investigate petitions against justices and to suspend them where necessary pending investigations. The GBA stressed that the process must be conducted fairly and in-camera, as stipulated by law.
The Bar Association also reminded all parties involved to exercise discretion in a candid, fair, and non-arbitrary manner, as enshrined in Article 296 of the Constitution.
“The GBA shall continue to act as the conscience of society, the voice of the voiceless, and safeguard the rule of law and the Constitution which embodies the hopes and aspirations of the Ghanaian people,” the statement concluded.
Mr. Essilfie Kumi ended by appealing for calm, urging all Ghanaians to respect and protect the peace, dignity, and rule of law that Ghana cherishes.
Ghana| AtinkaOnline.com| Barimah K. Saakwa