Following the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo by President John Dramani Mahama, social activist and lawyer Oliver Barker-Vormawor has suggested that Justice Emmanuel Yonny Kulendi should be appointed as the next Chief Justice if the current Chief Justice is eventually removed.

In a post on his Facebook page on Sunday, 27th April, 2025, Barker-Vormawor wrote: “If, and that’s a big if. If the Chief Justice is removed. I would recommend Kulendi for the job. He writes with the intellectual clarity that a Chief Justice should.”

Justice Kulendi, who currently serves on Ghana’s Supreme Court, is known for his deep legal understanding and clear, well-reasoned judgments. Barker-Vormawor has previously praised Justice Kulendi’s dissenting opinion in the famous case involving investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas. In that case, Kulendi criticized the trial judge for being biased and not following the principles of fairness and justice.

Barker-Vormawor’s latest endorsement is important because he has often been critical of the judiciary, accusing some judges of being politically biased. His open support for Justice Kulendi shows he believes Kulendi has the honesty, fairness, and intellectual strength needed to lead Ghana’s judiciary at this critical time.

The suspension of Chief Justice Torkornoo has stirred many conversations in the country about who should take over if she is permanently removed. While a committee is still investigating the allegations against her, some Ghanaians, like Barker-Vormawor, are already suggesting names for the role.

As the process continues, many are calling for a Chief Justice who will be fair, independent, and committed to upholding the law without fear or favour. Oliver Barker-Vormawor believes Justice Kulendi fits that description perfectly.

Everyone is now waiting to see how the investigation will end and whether President Mahama will consider Barker-Vormawor’s recommendation.