The Acting Deputy CEO of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), Abdul Aziz Mohammed, has defended the removal of the Chief Justice, stressing that the decision was made in accordance with constitutional provisions and due process.
In a recent interview on Prime Morning on News Flash, Mr. Mohammed stated that the government was not surprised by the development, given the facts that were presented.
Mr. Mohammed emphasized that the government’s priority was to ensure that the constitutional process was followed, and he was not surprised by the removal of the Chief Justice.
He explained that the facts from the onset were clear, and the government was committed to due process. He also dismissed claims from the opposition that procedures were breached, stating that they have been unable to point to a clear breach of procedure.
The Acting Deputy CEO noted that the office of the Chief Justice, like others such as the Electoral Commission (EC) Chair, is constitutionally insulated but still subject to Article 146, which governs removal processes.
He cited examples of previous removals, including the EC Chair and deputy under President Akufo-Addo, and the Commissioner for Human Rights under President Mahama.
Mr. Mohammed stressed that the Constitution itself allows for such removals, and the most important thing is whether due process was followed. He denied allegations of political motives, stating that the opposition NDC had not made any official statements about removing the Chief Justice if elected.
He also addressed reports that former President Mahama suggested reforms in the judiciary, insisting that the NDC’s promise was broader than targeting individuals.
In conclusion, Mr. Mohammed highlighted that the removal of the EC Chairperson carried even greater consequences than that of the Chief Justice. He noted that if future governments want to follow the same path, they are free to do so, provided they also respect due process.
The removal of the Chief Justice has sparked significant debate, with some arguing that it sets a dangerous precedent for the future of Ghana’s judiciary. However, Mr. Mohammed’s defense of the removal emphasizes the importance of following due process and respecting the Constitution.
