The 10-day deadline for President-elect John Dramani Mahama to decide on the tenure of Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, expired on April 7, 2025.
This followed the submission of three petitions requesting her removal.
On March 28, 2025, the Chief Justice herself formally wrote to the President, a request that was acknowledged in a letter signed by Dr Callistus Mahama, the president’s secretary.
In accordance with Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution, the Presidency confirmed that the petitions were forwarded to the Council of State for advice.
With the deadline now lapsed, reports indicate that the president has received a formal response from the Chief Justice, enabling the Council of State to proceed with providing its recommendations on the matter.
Key Figures Opposing Removal
Prof. Stephen Adei
A respected academic, renowned economist, and former Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Professor Stephen Adei has emerged as one of the most prominent voices warning against the removal of the Chief Justice.
He has expressed concerns about the potential implications, emphasizing the need for stability within the judiciary. He cautioned that any politically motivated removal could undermine Ghana’s democratic foundations and set a troubling precedent for future governments.
Nii Ayikoi Otoo
A former Solicitor-General, Minister for Justice, and Deputy Attorney General, Nii Ayikoi Otoo has also expressed concern.
He has warned that removing the Chief Justice could damage the rule of law and the integrity of the judiciary.
He emphasized the necessity of respecting due process and criticized any actions based on unverified political pressure rather than credible evidence.
Janet Nabla
Janet Nabla, the Flagbearer of the People’s National Party (PNP) has stressed the importance of maintaining judicial independence and avoiding actions that could be seen as politically motivated.
In a statement dated March 27, she condemned the decision to involve the Council of State in reviewing the petitions, describing it as “unprecedented” and a clear “betrayal of women.”
Janet Nabla contended that previous administrations upheld the independence of the judiciary and worked collaboratively with the Chief Justice—a standard they argue the current government has failed to meet.
Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah
Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, a respected lawyer has joined others in urging caution.
He highlighted the need for careful consideration and consultation before making any decision that could affect the judiciary.
The legal practitioner warned that removing the Chief Justice without just cause could have long-lasting consequences for the judiciary’s credibility and Ghana’s democratic stability.
He urged the Council of State to consider the long-term implications for the legal system’s integrity.
Source: www.ghanaweb.com
