True to prediction, the Mahama-led NDC government has activated a grand scheme to remove the Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkonoo.
Torkonoo, 63, who assumed office as the 15th Chief Justice of Ghana on June 12, 2023 had come under a barrage of verbal attacks by the NDC and its surrogates, accusing her of bias. Many of them swore to see to her removal once the NDC won the 2024 elections.
Coup activated
On Tuesday, March 25, the presidency issued a statement indicating that President John Dramani Mahama has forwarded to the Council of State, three petitions submitted by some unnamed individuals seeking the removal of the Chief Justice.
The statement said the President’s action, which is in accordance with Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution, will enable the Council of State to begin the mandated consultation process.
History
Historically, no Chief Justice in Ghana has been successfully removed through the processes outlined in Article 146. Recent unsuccessful attempts involved Chief Justice Georgina Wood, who faced three petitions for her removal during the period of President Mills, Mahama & Akufo-Addo.
Background
Justice Torkornoo is the third female Chief Justice of Ghana, after Justice Georgina Theodora Wood (2007-2017) and Justice Sophia A. B. Akuffo (2017-2020). She took over from Justice Anin Yeboah, who retired on May 24, 2023 at age 70, as required by Law.
