President Akufo-Addo petitioned to dismiss Chief Justice

On December 16, 2024, a Ghanaian individual petitioned President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo from office. The petitioner claims that the Chief Justice has engaged in misconduct and incompetence, activities that are harmful to the integrity of Ghana’s courts.

Under Ghana’s Constitution, specifically Article 146, the process for removing a Chief Justice involves several steps:

1. Petition Submission: A petition is filed with the President, detailing the alleged misconduct.

2. Presidential Action: The President forwards the petition to the Council of State for advice.

3. Parliamentary Involvement: If the Council of State advises proceeding, Parliament is notified.

4. Committee Formation: Parliament appoints a committee to investigate the allegations.

5. Report and Decision: The committee submits its findings to Parliament, which then decides on the removal.

This procedure ensures a thorough and impartial review of any allegations against the Chief Justice.

The petition underscores the importance of maintaining judicial integrity and accountability. While the specific details of the alleged breaches have not been publicly disclosed, the petition highlights concerns that, if substantiated, could undermine public trust in the judiciary.

As the petition progresses, it is crucial for all parties to adhere to the constitutional framework, ensuring a fair and transparent process. The outcome will have significant implications for the judiciary’s credibility and the public’s confidence in its ability to administer justice impartially.

For a comprehensive understanding of the petition and its potential impact, you can watch the following video:

Petition to Remove Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo

Source: https://x.com/JoyNewsOnTV/status/1869110648451338314?t=6RVmgTlZ1nqR7RJLGos8sQ&s=19