Torkornoo’s removal unconstitutional, sets dangerous precedent – Minority

The Minority in Parliament has strongly opposed the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo by President John Dramani Mahama, describing the process as unconstitutional and lacking transparency.

Speaking on behalf of the Minority in Parliament on Tuesday, October 21, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin stated, “The Minority registers its unequivocal objection to the removal of the CJ, Mrs. Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo. We believe the process lacks transparency, violated constitutional principles, and sets a dangerous precedent for judicial interference.”

President Mahama, on September 1, 2025, officially removed the Chief Justice from office following the recommendation of a Committee of Inquiry set up under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution.

The committee had investigated a petition submitted by a private citizen, Mr. Daniel Ofori, which alleged misbehaviour on the part of the Chief Justice.

According to a statement from the Presidency, the committee found the allegations to be substantiated and recommended her removal. The President, bound by Article 146(9), acted accordingly.

Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, assured the public that the process was conducted in full compliance with constitutional procedures. He said both the petitioner and the Chief Justice were given the opportunity to be heard.

However, the Minority insists that the process undermined judicial independence and raises concerns about executive overreach.

The removal of the Chief Justice has sparked widespread debate, with legal experts, civil society groups, and political parties sharply divided over the constitutionality and implications of the action.