The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has criticized the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) for demanding the reinstatement of suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, describing the call as a blatant violation of the 1992 Constitution.
Speaking in an interview with Joy FM monitored by Kumasimail, Minister Ofosu Kwakye reacted sharply to the GBA’s appeal, which was made during the June 30 memorial event commemorating the murdered High Court judges.
He expressed surprise and disapproval over the Association’s position, emphasizing that it undermines the constitutional processes currently underway.
He stated, “It is quite obvious that some individuals are attempting to exploit the tragic murders of the High Court judges and a military officer by drawing unfounded parallels with the ongoing constitutional proceedings concerning petitions against the Chief Justice. There is simply no valid connection between these events that justifies the kind of commentary we are witnessing.”
He underscored the importance of upholding the Constitution, saying, “It is shocking that the Ghana Bar Association, a respected legal body, would advocate for a willful and blatant breach of the 1992 Constitution simply because of the individual involved.”
The Minister further stressed that Ghana’s justice system is founded on the principle of equality before the law.
He questioned how constitutional procedures could be disregarded merely because of the sensitivity of a person’s position.
“The Constitution clearly outlines the processes to be followed in such matters, and these must be respected regardless of who is involved,” he added.
Minister Ofosu Kwakye accused the GBA of behaving more like a political entity than a professional legal association.
“For some time now, the Ghana Bar Association has appeared to align itself with the New Patriotic Party’s narratives, often ignoring facts and substantive issues,” he remarked.
He lamented that on a solemn day meant for sober reflection on the tragic events of 1992, some parties chose to prioritize emotional rhetoric over constitutional order.
“The Constitution exists for a reason; to ensure that no one is above the law, and that due process is followed in all circumstances,” he affirmed.
Addressing recent developments, Minister Ofosu Kwakye defended President Mahama’s handling of the Chief Justice’s suspension.
“President Mahama has acted strictly within the bounds of the Constitution. There has been no extra-constitutional or unconstitutional action on his part,” he clarified.
Felix Ofosu Kwakye argued that subjecting all public officials, regardless of rank, to constitutional due process is a hallmark of good governance.
“If we reach a point where no one is immune from accountability be it the President, the Speaker of Parliament, the Chief Justice, ministers, or other public office holders. That will be a significant victory for justice and governance in Ghana,” he said.
the Minister condemned the GBA’s repeated calls as inconsistent with its mandate.
“The Ghana Bar Association is essentially advocating for justice to be blindfolded only when it suits the person involved. This is unacceptable. Justice and due process must be impartial and not influenced by the identities of those involved,” he concluded.
Source : www.kumasimail.com /Kwadwo Owusu
