–BY Daniel Bampoe
A coalition of political parties has announced plans to stage a nationwide demonstration on Monday, May 5, 2025, in protest against what they describe as the unlawful suspension of Ghana’s Chief Justice.
In a joint statement issued after an emergency meeting on Thursday, April 24, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), National Democratic Party (NDP), People’s National Party (PNP), Ghana Union Movement (GUM), and other affiliated groups condemned the move as an assault on the country’s democracy and constitutional order.
According to the coalition, the suspension of the Chief Justice was politically motivated and part of a broader strategy by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to weaken the independence of Ghana’s judiciary.
The parties warned that this action mirrors past attempts by the NDC to interfere with judicial independence, citing the 2010 attempt to remove then-Chief Justice Georgina Theodora Wood.
“The disturbing trend of judicial intimidation is undeniable,” the coalition said.
“The current suspension is not just about one individual; it is an attack on the very foundations of our constitutional democracy.”
The political groups emphasized that the demonstration is intended to be a nonpartisan call to all Ghanaians to defend the rule of law and protect the judiciary from political interference.
They extended invitations to civil society organizations, religious bodies, and all citizens to participate in the protest.
Beyond the suspension of the Chief Justice, the political parties also expressed concern over reports of plans to remove the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission and her deputies.
They claim that such moves are designed to pave the way for political domination of key state institutions ahead of the 2028 general elections.
The coalition further alleged that there is a covert plan to reconstitute the Supreme Court with loyalist judges who would reinterpret Article 66(2) of the Constitution.
Such a reinterpretation, they fear, could potentially legitimize former President John Mahama’s bid for a third presidential term — a move they argue would erode democratic principles.
Additionally, the statement raised alarm over what the parties described as the unlawful termination of public servants’ appointments under the current administration.
They criticized the government for allegedly using political power to settle scores, undermining job security and creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among public workers.
“This is not the future Ghanaians were promised,” the statement read. “It is a dangerous path towards authoritarian rule, and we must resist it.”
The coalition concluded its statement by urging all Ghanaians to join the protest, declaring: “Now is the time to raise your voice. Stand for democracy. Oppose dictatorship.”
The demonstration is expected to take place across major cities and towns in the country, with organizers promising peaceful and coordinated activities to press home their demands.
