Professor Stephen Adei, former Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), has cautioned the incoming administration of President-elect John Dramani Mahama against any unwarranted attempt to remove Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo from office.
Speaking on TV3’s Hot Issues program, Professor Adei expressed concern over the potential destabilization of Ghana’s institutions if such a move were undertaken without just cause.
“It will be disastrous,” he warned. “He [Mahama] will be consolidating a very bad practice which will not augur well for Ghana’s future whereby every president basically appoints a new EC [Electoral Commission] or replaces key institutional heads. We must find a way not to destroy our institutions.”
Strengthening Institutional Integrity
Professor Adei emphasized the importance of safeguarding the independence of Ghana’s institutions, including the judiciary, to ensure the nation’s democratic stability. He noted that any action perceived as politically motivated could undermine public confidence in the judiciary and other governance structures.
“Ghanaians will pay a heavy price if we allow such practices to continue,” he added, urging the incoming administration to prioritize strengthening institutional integrity over partisan considerations.
Broader Context
Professor Adei’s remarks come amid heightened speculation over potential changes in leadership across key government institutions following the transition of power. Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, appointed by outgoing President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has faced scrutiny from some political quarters, though no formal action against her has been announced.
Observers have also raised concerns about maintaining continuity and stability in Ghana’s governance framework during the transition period.
As the incoming Mahama administration prepares to assume office, the call to respect institutional independence is expected to resonate widely among stakeholders committed to safeguarding Ghana’s democratic values.
Source: GhanaFeed.Com