Suspended Chief Justice Slams Removal Process as Deeply Flawed
Torkornoo says witnesses are uninformed, due process ignored, and the proceedings resemble a personal battle rather than a fair inquiry
- Torkornoo says she hasn’t received the official petition
- Witnesses can’t respond as they don’t know the allegations
- She claims the process violates core judicial principles
Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo has strongly criticized the process leading to her removal, describing it as a complete violation of judicial norms.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, June 25, Torkornoo revealed that she has not received an official copy of the petition against her from the investigating committee—only the version quoted by the President.
“Regrettably, every phase of this removal process defies the fundamental principles of justice,” she said.
She further noted that witnesses have been left in the dark about the specific allegations, making it difficult for them to respond appropriately. “The entire proceeding is being handled more like a personal lawsuit between myself and the petitioners, rather than a fair and impartial inquiry,” she remarked.
President John Dramani Mahama, following Article 146(6) of the Constitution and after consulting the Council of State, determined that there was a prima facie case against Torkornoo based on three separate petitions.
A statement released on Tuesday, April 22, signed by Minister for Government Communication Felix Kwakye Ofosu, confirmed her suspension, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 146(10). The President has also formed a committee to investigate the petitions, as stipulated by the Constitution.
