Political Scientist at the Kumasi Technical University, Dr Samuel Afriyie, believes that the suspension and subsequent removal proceedings against Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo are deeply rooted in political comments made by government actors during the run-up to the 2024 elections.
In his view, the Chief Justice’s assertion that she is being targeted is not without merit, particularly when viewed against the backdrop of public pronouncements made by influential appointees at the time.
“Why the woman is saying it is political is because of the comments that were made,” he spoke to ABC News GH on Thursday, June 26, 2025.
According to Dr Afriyie, these earlier political remarks—coupled with the nature of the current proceedings—provide enough ground for the CJ to feel victimized.
He pointed out that public confidence in the neutrality of the removal process has been severely shaken, and the choice of venue, mode of communication, and level of executive involvement all lend credibility to the Chief Justice’s claim.
“So you tend to have that perception,” he noted, reinforcing the belief that the process may be a carefully orchestrated political takedown.
Dr Afriyie warned that if political undertones continue to overshadow constitutional processes, Ghana risks undermining its democratic institutions.
He advised that the committee should assert its independence and maintain strict adherence to due process, while distancing itself from any executive overreach.
“The committee has capable members who could have defended themselves,” he said, suggesting that silence would have served better than a politically charged rebuttal.
