The women’s rights and gender equality coalitions have called for a thoughtful consideration of the broader implications surrounding the recent suspension of Chief Justice (CJ), Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.
The coalitions, which include the Affirmative Action Law Coalition, the Domestic Violence Coalition, and the Women Manifesto Coalition in Ghana, noted that the trend of removing individuals from strategic constitutional and institutional leadership positions, especially women, whenever there was a change of government, was uncalled for.
A statement issued and copied to the Ghana News Agency said the pattern not only undermined the principles of constitutional governance but also weakened public trust in institutions.
Touching on the Affirmative Action Act, it said such actions sent discouraging messages to competent women, who might consider serving their nation as key public office holders.
“In light of the Chief Justice’s suspension, and under Article 147(6) of the Constitution, we wish to acknowledge the President’s expression of commitment to following due process during this challenging time,” it said.
“Transparency and adherence to constitutional guidelines are pivotal in maintaining the integrity of our institutions, and we recognise the importance of these principles in the President’s decisions.”
However, Ghana must be seen to be amplifying the role of women in society since we are signatory to all conventions and agreements on women’s rights, gender equality, and democratic governance, the statement said.
It said it was essential for all to react on how to support and uplift women leaders in society while ensuring accountability in leadership.
Encouraging diversity and actively fostering an environment where women could thrive and their contributions recognised was vital to the collective progress, it added.
The statement highlighted inadequacies and the lack of prioritisation in the implementation of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act 2024 (Act 1121) by the State.
The section 14(2) of Act 1121 mandating a minimum of 30 per cent representation of women in decision-making positions was yet to be achieved. It called for the need for a thoughtful consideration of the broader implications over the recent suspension, particularly in the context of women in central leadership roles and the promotion of gender equality and justice.
SOURCE: GNA
