The Attorney General’s remarks on the Chief Justices removal process have sparked intense debate. However, the Binduri Member of Parliament, Esq. Issifu Mahmoud has thrown his support behind Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine’s sharp criticism of the Ghana Bar Association over the Chief Justice’s removal process.
In an interview with Alfa on the Orange Sunrise, the MP described Dr. Ayine as “a well-principled, learned person” whose credibility is unquestionable. He argued that Ghanaians should appreciate leaders who are bold enough to challenge their own institutions.
“Ghanaians should be grateful that, courtesy His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, we have men of this stature,” he said. Mahmoud added that meaningful change can only come when members within the Bar speak out, not outsiders. “If you and I sit here to criticize the Ghana Bar, what impact will it make?” he asked.
The Attorney General’s remarks on the removal of chief justices in Ghana came during the 2025 Annual Bar Conference in Wa. Dr. Ayine accused the GBA of inconsistency in its advocacy, saying the association remained silent during the removal of previous chief justices.
He also noted that under former Chief Justice Georgina Wood, several judges were removed following investigations by journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas, yet the Bar failed to comment. However, the association became vocal when petitions were filed against former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
“Outside the courtroom, the advocacy of the Bar has lacked consistency,” Dr. Ayine stated. According to him, such selective silence undermines public trust and creates the perception that the Bar has become partisan.
Hon. Mahmoud on Legal Procedures
Mahmoud also addressed the constitutional process for the removal of chief justices, emphasizing that Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution provides both the substantive law and the detailed procedure for removing independent office holders. These include justices of the Superior Courts and heads of key institutions such as the Electoral Commission.
“It is only that procedure that should be followed to get to the outcome,” he explained. The MP warned that when state institutions deviate from this procedure, the courts have the authority to quash the process.
He dismissed claims that additional constitutional instruments are required, insisting that Article 146 already offers a clear framework. “Article 146 in itself has laid down the procedure,” he said. He further noted that Ghana has applied the article several times, reinforcing the Attorney General’s argument.
Critics argue that the Bar must demonstrate greater consistency if it is to maintain its independence and authority. For Hon. Mahmoud, the Attorney General’s bold intervention is proof of principled leadership. “Let us praise people who are strong enough in character and in principle and will be able to come out to criticize certain things that they feel are not going well,” he said.
