7 hours ago
Yaw Asani Tano has claimed that the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo removes the New Patriotic Party’s final shield against accountability. He argues that her appointment served as the party’s “last protective covering,” shielding corrupt officials and questionable state activities from judicial scrutiny. According to Tano, once that barrier is gone, the judiciary can finally act independently and pursue justice .
Speaking on the Citizen TV YouTube channel, Tano alleged that under Torkornoo’s tenure, party-affiliated figures evaded consequences due to perceived political immunity. He asserted that this unchecked protection facilitated high-level improprieties, including involvement in dubious contracts and internal party misdeeds. The removal of the Chief Justice, he said, paves the way for prosecutions that were previously stalled or never initiated .
Tano further warned that the NPP’s influence over the judiciary created a culture of impunity that could only be dismantled by the suspension. He urged the Office of the Special Prosecutor and investigative agencies to act swiftly, suggesting that this moment represents a historic opportunity to restore public trust. Tano’s remarks highlighted his belief that without judicial interference, Ghana’s fight against corruption gains renewed momentum .
He emphasised that while some will frame the suspension as politically motivated, it must be viewed in the broader context of rooting out systemic irregularities. Tano called on civil society and media to remain vigilant and demand transparency as inquiries into past deals and appointments proceed. He concluded by stressing that this is a pivotal test for the principle of separation of powers and the rule of law in Ghana .
With the Chief Justice sidelined, Tano’s challenge places pressure on both political and judicial actors to ensure investigations are free from partisan interference. The opposition, he noted, should not capitalize on this moment but rather support institutional checks and balances. Ultimately, he contended, Ghana stands at a crossroads—choosing either entrenched privilege or a renewed commitment to justice and accountability .
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