Martin Kpebu Explains What Happens After CJ Responds to Impeachment Petition

Following Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo’s response to the petition seeking her removal, legal expert Martin Kpebu has outlined the next steps for President John Dramani Mahama in the impeachment process as reported by Ghana Web.

Speaking in an interview on April 7, 2025, Kpebu emphasized that the president, in consultation with the Council of State, should seek independent legal advice to determine the validity of the petition.

“The president is going to consider the petition in consultation with the Council of State. Meaning they will give him advice and once it’s good, he will take it,” Kpebu explained. He stressed that the advice should come from a reputable lawyer, ensuring the integrity of the process.

He pointed to the precedent set by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who similarly sought independent legal counsel when handling a petition by Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare (Kwaku Azar).

Kpebu further clarified that once the president and the Council of State determine that the allegations in the petition are credible, a prima facie case could be established.

This would allow for the suspension of the Chief Justice or the formation of a committee to investigate the allegations.

“The president can then proceed by suspending the Chief Justice or setting a committee to investigate the allegations,” Kpebu stated.