- Chief Justice Torkornoo claims suspension inquiry is flawed and politically motivated
- Alleges she wasn’t informed of charges and criticizes committee chaired by Justice Gabriel Pwamang
- He says addressing the media while proceedings are held in camera is "inappropriate" and undermines judicial decorum
Former Ghana School of Law Director, Kwaku Ansa-Asare, has strongly criticised suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo for publicly addressing the proceedings surrounding her suspension, calling the move “a wrong approach” and unbecoming of a Chief Justice.
Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse, Mr. Ansa-Asare said it was inappropriate for the Chief Justice to appeal to public opinion while an official inquiry is ongoing—especially one being held in camera (privately).
“The Chief Justice, of all people, should know that when proceedings are held in camera, you don’t rush to the public to tell your side of the story. That’s not how our legal system works,” he stated.
Justice Torkornoo, who was suspended in April 2025 by President John Mahama after a prima facie case was established by the Council of State, broke her silence at a press conference on June 25. She raised constitutional concerns and alleged that the inquiry was politically motivated and procedurally flawed.
However, Mr. Ansa-Asare insisted the proper place to air such grievances is before the investigating committee, not through the media.
“She must express any concerns to the committee. Her lawyers can request that everything she says is recorded. Turning to a press conference expecting public support is misguided.”
He further clarified that the public has no constitutional role in lifting or ending the suspension. That power lies solely with the President, through legally defined processes.
“The public cannot reinstate her. Only the President can act within the framework of the Constitution. So appealing to the public achieves nothing in legal terms.”
While acknowledging that Justice Torkornoo may be acting out of personal frustration, Mr. Ansa-Asare cautioned against letting emotion override institutional protocol.
“She seems overwhelmed and frustrated, but that doesn’t justify bypassing the appropriate legal channels. This is another example of a misstep by a Chief Justice who should know better.”
Justice Torkornoo’s suspension followed three separate petitions alleging abuse of power and judicial misconduct. A five-member committee, chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang, was appointed to investigate the claims.
In her public address, Justice Torkornoo vehemently denied the allegations, stating:
“No one can ever accuse me of taking a bribe. This process appears carefully staged to remove me without lawful grounds.”
She criticised the inquiry’s conduct, alleging that she was not properly informed of the charges, that witnesses were not being allowed to testify, and that the committee’s composition was questionable—particularly because Justice Pwamang, who previously ruled on a case mentioned by a petitioner, now chairs the panel.
“This is the personal treasure of integrity that I live with,” she said, defending her record.
