Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo delivered a powerful and defiant address on June 25, 2025, rejecting calls to resign and accusing the ongoing removal process against her of being unconstitutional and deeply flawed.
Her remarks have sparked national debate and raised alarm over the integrity of Ghana’s judicial system. Below are nine key takeaways from her statement:
1. Unconstitutional and Unprecedented Process
Justice Torkornoo called the proceedings against her “historic, but deeply flawed”, alleging that every step taken by the committee violates legal and constitutional norms.
“Every step breaks every rule on how justice is delivered.”
2. A Threat to Judicial Independence
She warned that the implications of her case go far beyond her office, potentially undermining the independence of all judges and constitutional bodies.
“If this model can be tried on the Chief Justice, it can be repeated with everyone.”
3. Supreme Court Rejected Transparency
Her plea for public hearings was turned down by the Supreme Court, a move she believes undermines accountability and opens the door to abuse.
“Transparency would have served the public interest, but the request was denied.”
4. Symbolism of Fear: Hearings Held at Adu Lodge
She questioned why the hearings were held at Adu Lodge, a location historically linked to the 1981 murder of judges, including her own uncle.
“Was it chosen to make me feel insecure? I think so.”
5. Denied Access to Petitions
Justice Torkornoo claimed she was not given copies of the petitions against her, denying her the chance to mount a full defence.
“They refuse to give me the documents forming the basis of the hearing.”
6. Illegally Subpoenaing Witnesses
She argued that the committee had no legal mandate to issue subpoenas, making the process invalid.
“There is no statutory authority to compel witnesses in this process.”
7. Allegations Are Baseless
Torkornoo insisted that none of the accusations hold merit, providing documentation to debunk claims ranging from travel expenses to court rulings.
“Not one allegation is remotely true.”
8. Refusal to Resign Under Pressure
Despite public and private pressure to resign, including threats, she remained firm:
“Resigning is not an option—it would mean accepting this flawed system.”
9. Conflict of Interest in Committee
She raised an alarm over Justice Pwamang’s role as chair of the investigative committee, alleging a conflict of interest due to past rulings involving one of the petitioners, businessman Daniel Ofori.
Justice Torkornoo concluded her address by warning that Ghana’s democracy faces a critical test.
“If this is allowed to stand, no constitutional officeholder is safe.”
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