CJ’s suspension has triggered debate, with former Ambassador Dr Tony Aidoo defending President John Mahama’s recent actions.
On Tuesday, April 22, President Mahama suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo after consulting the Council over removal petitions.
He also set up a five-member committee to investigate the petitions against the Chief Justice during her suspension period.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Dr Aidoo said the President simply fulfilled his constitutional role as Head of State.
He stated, “President Mahama has performed his duty and exercised discretionary power while addressing the petitions against the CJ.”
Opposition voices, especially from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), have criticised the move as biased and lacking transparency.
They claim the President should have explained his use of discretionary powers in CJ’s suspension from her office.
Dr Aidoo dismissed the criticisms, insisting the President was not obligated to justify the exercise of his powers.
“Why should the President give his reasons?” he asked, describing the act as both a duty and a discretionary option.
He added, “The Constitution says ‘he shall’ perform his duty, and ‘he may’ use discretion, which is exactly what happened.”
