“NDC Raises Concerns Over Alleged Harassment of Dormaahene”

NDC Raises Alarm Over Alleged Harassment of Dormaahene Regarding MP James Gyakye Quayson’s Trial

The National Democratic Congress (NDC), the opposition party, has expressed deep concerns over what it claims is the harassment and victimization of Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu. The Dormaahene, who is also a High Court Justice and a paramount chief, made comments at an event in Sunyani, the Bono Regional capital, regarding the ongoing trial of MP James Gyakye Quayson of Assin North.

The NDC, through its General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, alleged that the Dormaahene was summoned before a committee constituted by the Judicial Council, chaired by Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Sackey Torkonoo, due to his remarks on Mr. Quayson’s court case. The NDC argues that as a chief and a promoter of culture, peace, unity, and development in the country, the Dormaahene has the right to speak on matters of public interest.

During an event organized by the John Evans Atta Mills Heritage in Sunyani, the Dormaahene called for the country to consider amending the legal regime that prohibits dual citizens from being elected as Members of Parliament. He also appealed to the Attorney-General to consider entering a nolle prosequi in light of Mr. Quayson’s re-election by the people of Assin North in a recent by-election. However, some members of the public did not agree with his statements.

The NDC maintains that the Dormaahene’s comments did not prejudice any ongoing court case or breach any Code of Conduct for Judges, as they related to the Attorney-General’s discretion, not the court’s proceedings. The NDC finds the alleged attempt to victimize the Dormaahene unacceptable and calls on the Judicial Council to respect the constitution. They intend to collaborate with other progressive forces and democracy defenders to protest what they see as a creeping culture of judicial tyranny.

While the NDC acknowledges the Judiciary’s vital role in the governance architecture, it insists that the Judiciary must respect citizens’ right to free speech, as guaranteed by the 1992 Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land. The NDC asserts that the Judiciary cannot elevate itself above the Constitution and punish chiefs for voicing concerns on matters of public interest.

Source: graphiconline.com