President Mahama Suspends Chief Justice Amid Probe
In a significant development, President John Mahana has suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, effective immediately, following the establishment of a committee to investigate a slew of petitions levelled against the esteemed jurist.
This decisive action was announced in a statement from the Presidency, underscoring the administration’s commitment to upholding the tenets of accountability and transparency.
According to the statement, President Mahana’s decision to suspend the Chief Justice was precipitated by the existence of “sufficient grounds” to warrant further inquiry, as stipulated in Article 146(6) of the Constitution. This constitutional provision mandates the formation of a committee to probe allegations against a superior court judge if a prima facie case is established.
The committee tasked with investigating the petitions is a veritable who’s who of distinguished individuals from various sectors. Chaired by Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang of the Supreme Court, the committee also comprises Justice Samuel Kwame Adibua-Asiedu of the Supreme Court, Daniel Yaw Domelevo, the indefatigable former Auditor-General, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Professor James Sefh Dzisah, an Associate Professor at the University of Ghana.
In conformity with Article 146(10) of the Constitution and upon the advice of the Council of State, President Mahana issued a warrant suspending the Chief Justice pending the outcome of the committee’s proceedings. This measured response underscores the administration’s resolve to ensure that the judiciary remains above reproach and that the rule of law is upheld with utmost integrity.
“We want to make sure that the judiciary is free from any form of impropriety,” President Mahana reiterated in a related address at the Kwahu Business Forum, highlighting the importance of trust in institutions.
“From bus axle breakdowns to lintel-level homes: I’ve seen it all, and I can tell you that trust in business and institutions is paramount.”