Review Article 71 removal rules for a comprehensive, robust process – Justice Abdulai

Lawyer and legal academic, Justice Abdulai is pushing for urgent constitutional reforms to address ambiguities in the process for removing top public officials, including the Chief Justice.

Contributing to a discussion on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, May 3, Justice Abdulai argued that while the current removal procedures may have shortcomings, they remain valid under the constitution and must be respected until properly revised.

“This is what the constitution provides,” he stated, adding “Until we take active steps to amend and provide roadmaps going forward, I do not see how we can act unconstitutionally just to appease people who think the process is unfair.”

His remarks follow widespread criticism of the constitutional provisions governing the removal of Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, with some questioning the legitimacy of the petition submitted against her.

Justice Abdulai cautioned against letting public sentiment override the constitution and called for a systematic review of the removal mechanisms for Article 71 officeholders.

“We need a more comprehensive, robust process not just for the Chief Justice, but for all Article 71 officeholders. That’s how we strengthen and protect our democracy.”

His call adds to growing voices demanding a re-examination of the country’s constitutional framework to ensure it aligns with principles of fairness, clarity, and accountability.