NPP's aggressive reactions to Chief Justice suspension raise serious concerns – GFL

The Secretary-General of the Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), Mr. Abraham Koomson, has expressed concerns over the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) and its affiliate political parties’ strong reactions to the suspension of Chief Justice Mrs. Gertrude Torkornoo by President John Dramani Mahama.

Speaking over the weekend, Mr. Koomson suggested that the NPP’s response implies that former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo appointed the Chief Justice to further their agenda after leaving power.

He told newsmen in Tema that the NPP’s aggressive stance, particularly through its micro-minority in Parliament, opposing any actions taken by the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, has raised concerns about the opposition's approach to governance.

“Any progressive opposition political party or parties must be constructive, productive, and demonstrate their interest in nation-building, but aggressive opposition to ruling governments purposely to undermine it is working against national interest,” Mr. Koomson, a seasoned unionist, stated.

Mr. Koomson also urged President Mahama, his government, and the majority in Parliament to remain vigilant when dealing with the micro-minority in Parliament and former government appointees across various sectors. He pointed out that individuals appointed by former President Akufo-Addo to sensitive national entities, including state-owned media and public institutions, might undermine the efforts of the new NDC government.

"President Mahama, you have committed to resetting the country; go ahead and deal with all the appointees made by Akufo-Addo; they can sabotage your resetting agenda," Mr. Koomson urged.

He raised concerns that the NPP’s opposition to the Chief Justice’s suspension could be driven by fears that her removal might expose past judicial dealings, suggesting that she may have been appointed to further the party’s interests in the judiciary.

Mr. Koomson emphasized the need to address the influence of politically connected individuals appointed by the previous NPP government who are still in positions of power in sensitive national offices. He stressed that this is essential for the success of President Mahama’s “resetting agenda.”

Commenting on the suspension of Chief Justice Torkornoo, Mr. Koomson expressed strong support for the President’s decision, highlighting the ongoing investigation into the Chief Justice, triggered by three undisclosed petitions calling for her permanent removal. He stated that key appointees from the previous administration, including the Chief Justice, must be removed to prevent any acts of sabotage against the nation’s progress.