Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has strongly criticised the ongoing process to remove her from office, warning that it undermines constitutional principles and poses a serious threat to Ghana’s democratic foundations.
Addressing the media at a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, Justice Torkornoo described the proceedings as “a blatant disregard for the rule of law,” and said the approach taken so far violates the very legal standards her office is meant to uphold.
“Unfortunately, every step of the removal process being undertaken against me is being done in a manner that breaks every rule on how justice is delivered in our country,” she said. “This is why I find the need to draw the nation’s attention to the serious violations of the Constitution and the law in the process and the danger it holds for the development of the nation’s democracy.”
Justice Torkornoo’s suspension follows multiple petitions alleging misconduct. In accordance with Article 146(6) of Ghana’s Constitution, a five-member committee was formed to investigate the claims. The committee’s hearings are being conducted in camera, in line with constitutional requirements.
Attempts to challenge both her suspension and the impeachment proceedings through the courts have so far failed. The Supreme Court has dismissed four separate lawsuits and interlocutory injunction applications, including one filed by Justice Torkornoo herself.
Appointed in June 2023, Justice Torkornoo made history as Ghana’s third female Chief Justice. Her suspension marks a historic moment in the Fourth Republic, as she becomes the first sitting Chief Justice to face potential removal from office under such proceedings.
Despite the legal setbacks, she has vowed to continue resisting what she characterises as an unlawful and politically charged process.
