A tense moment occurred at the gates of the Supreme Court in Accra during the #SaveTheJudiciaryDemo on Monday, May 5, 2025. A police officer, clearly frustrated by the growing crowd, was heard telling a colleague, “If you want to go home, continue allowing them in,” after Member of Parliament for Okaikwei Central, Patrick Yaw Boamah, was allowed inside.
The comment, which was made in public and caught on camera, reflects the level of pressure security officers are facing as hundreds of demonstrators stormed the Supreme Court area. The protest is part of a larger movement led by the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) and other political groups to demand the reinstatement of suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Torkornoo.
According to the demonstrators, the Chief Justice’s suspension by President John Dramani Mahama is a direct attack on the independence of Ghana’s judiciary. Protesters say the decision threatens the rule of law and sets a dangerous example for future governments.
The police had mounted heavy security at the premises to control the crowd, but tensions rose when protesters insisted on getting closer to the court. Some argued that if politicians were allowed inside, then ordinary citizens should also be permitted to observe the proceedings peacefully.
The comment from the police officer quickly spread on social media, with many saying it shows how overstretched the security personnel were. Others believe it highlights unfair treatment between ordinary citizens and politicians.
Despite the tension, the protest remained largely peaceful, with demonstrators waving placards and chanting for justice. The organizers have promised to continue their peaceful demonstrations until the Chief Justice is reinstated and the independence of the judiciary is fully respected.
The situation at the Supreme Court remains calm but closely monitored. Currently, the protestors are on their way to the Parliament House and possibly to the Jubilee House.
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