President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has dismissed a petition seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, citing a lack of credible evidence.
After thorough consultations with the Council of State, the President concluded that the petition, filed by Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare, did not disclose a prima facie case warranting further investigation.
The petition accused the Chief Justice of misconduct and incompetence, referencing alleged panel reconstitution, issuance of practice directions, and constitutional breaches.
However, the President’s review stressed the absence of supporting evidence and affirmed that the Chief Justice’s actions were consistent with legal and established practices.
In a statement issued on Monday, January 6, 2025, the President criticized the premature public circulation of the petition, describing it as a violation of Article 146(8) of Ghana’s Constitution, which mandates confidentiality in such proceedings.
“Such a violation undermines the solemnity of the process and the principles enshrined in the Constitution to safeguard judicial independence,” the statement emphasized.
The Council of State also deemed the petition “frivolous, vexatious, and unmeritorious,” further recommending its dismissal.
Acting on their advice, President Akufo-Addo reinforced his commitment to upholding the judiciary’s integrity, stating, “The independence and integrity of the judiciary remain a cornerstone of Ghana’s democracy.”
