Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has formally responded to President John Dramani Mahama regarding the petitions seeking her removal from office, marking a significant development in a critical constitutional procedure.
On Monday, 7 April, just before the deadline of 10 working days set by the President, Justice Torkornoo submitted her written response. Sources confirm that copies of her reply were delivered to both the Presidency and the Council of State, in line with the constitutional process.
The petitions, which were lodged last month, have sparked intense legal debate and public discourse, raising questions about the correct constitutional procedures for handling such matters. In a previous communication with the President, the Chief Justice had requested copies of the petitions and asked for an extension of at least seven days to ensure fairness and proper due process.
Now that the response has been submitted, the Council of State will review the matter to determine whether there is a prima facie case to justify further proceedings. This review is an essential part of the process outlined in Article 146(6) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.
If the Council finds sufficient grounds, a formal committee may be formed to investigate the allegations against the Chief Justice, potentially leading to significant consequences for both the judiciary and the balance of power within the Constitution.
In addition, the legal challenge has moved to the courts. On 9 April, the Supreme Court will hear a case filed by Vincent Ekow Assafuah, the Member of Parliament for Old Tafo. The case questions the legality of President Mahama initiating the removal process without informing the Chief Justice beforehand, raising constitutional concerns about the separation of powers and procedural integrity.
