Suspended Chief Justice of Ghana, Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, has publicly decried what she describes as a “historic miscarriage of justice” in the ongoing proceedings seeking her removal from office.
In a rare and emotionally charged press conference held yesterday in Accra, the Chief Justice broke her silence, alleging systemic violations of her rights and constitutional norms guiding such high-profile inquiries.
Justice Torkornoo, Ghana’s first Chief Justice to face removal proceedings in the country’s 68-year post-independence history, described the process as deeply flawed and politically motivated.
“This process should have been a precedent for strengthening our democracy. Instead, every step taken has broken the rules that ensure justice in our republic.”
A Litany of Grievances
Among the Chief Justice’s grievances were serious procedural concerns, including:
The Committee’s refusal to recognise her legal counsel on the first day of hearings, due to her absence, despite counsel being physically present.
Failure by the Committee to specify allegations against her or offer reasons for prima facie determinations, leaving her unable to mount a proper defence.
Denial of the opportunity to cross-examine petitioners Daniel Ofori and Shining Stars, whose testimonies reportedly form part of the evidence.
Refusal to allow a family member or spouse in the hearing room for support.
Personal searches conducted in violation of standard protocols and courtesies for a sitting Chief Justice.
She also raised alarm over the choice of venue, the high-security Adu Lodge facility on Castle Drive, Osu, alleging that it was intentionally chosen to intimidate and isolate her.
Justice Torkornoo noted the location’s dark history, recalling its association with the abduction and murder of judges during Ghana’s military past.
“The place where I am being tried,” she stated solemnly, “is the same place where my uncle and guardian, Major Sam Acquah, was implicated and killed in the 1981 judicial murders.”
Political Agenda?
The Chief Justice suggested that the removal proceedings may be fueled by political interests aiming to control the judiciary.
“I have heard commentary that this is a political agenda and I must admit, the irregularities make it hard to believe otherwise,” she said, adding that she had chosen to participate in the process out of respect for constitutional procedure, even as she questions its legality.
Justice Torkornoo, a seasoned legal professional with 38 years at the Bar and 21 years on the Bench, emphasised that her protest is not about clinging to power but about defending the integrity of Ghana’s judiciary.
“No one can look me in the eye and accuse me of taking a bribe to decide a case,” she asserted. “This is the personal treasure of integrity I live with.”
Echoes of History
Citing German Pastor Martin Niemöller’s famous quote on silence in the face of oppression, Justice Torkornoo warned of a dangerous precedent being set, one that could render judges and independent office holders vulnerable to political whims and smear campaigns.
“If this nation descends into secret proceedings that break every rule of adjudication,” she warned, “no judge, commissioner or constitutional officer will be safe.”
She concluded with a prayer for the future of Ghana, saying “I choose to trust that such darkness will not totally engulf this nation. May God bless our homeland Ghana, and make our nation great and strong.”
The post My Removal Process Is Politically Motivated –CJ appeared first on The Ghanaian Chronicle.
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