Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo has justified the appointment of five new judges to the Supreme Court of Ghana, citing the pressing need to address the backlog of cases currently burdening the judiciary.

In a letter dated May 30, 2024, addressed to President Nana Akufo-Addo, Chief Justice Torkonoo officially recommended the nomination of five judges to bolster the Supreme Court's capacity.

Among the nominees is Justice Afia Serwaa Asare Botwe, who is currently presiding over the contentious ambulance procurement trial involving Ato Forson, among others.

The other nominees include Justice Cyra Pamela Koranteng, Justice Edward Amoako Asante, Justice Eric Kyei Baffuour, and Justice Angelina Mensah Homiah.

Speaking on the matter, Chief Justice Torkonoo highlighted the overwhelming workload faced by the Supreme Court, emphasizing that the addition of more judges is crucial to expedite pending cases and ensure timely justice delivery.

"There are several cases pending, and that is why we need more Supreme Court judges," she stressed.

The call for additional judges comes amidst criticism from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), who have labeled the Chief Justice's recommendation as unconstitutional.

Fiifi Kwetey, the General Secretary of the NDC, expressed concerns over what he described as an attempt by the Executive to undermine judicial independence.

"The blatant unconstitutional actions of President Akufo-Addo and Chief Justice Torkonoo are a direct assault on our judicial independence and the soul of our democracy," Kwetey remarked during a press conference.

Kwetey further urged Chief Justice Torkonoo to retract her recommendation to President Akufo-Addo, cautioning against the judiciary becoming a political tool rather than a pillar of justice in Ghana.

"Imagine a Ghana where the Judiciary becomes a mere extension of a failed Executive – a tool for political retribution rather than justice. This is not the Ghana we pledged to fight for," he added.