President Akufo-Addo has received a petition calling for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo from office. The petition, filed on December 17 by a Ghanaian citizen, alleges misconduct and incompetence, citing constitutional and administrative breaches.
According to the petitioner, the Chief Justice’s actions undermine the credibility and integrity of Ghana’s judiciary. They argue that her removal is essential to maintaining public confidence in the judicial system.
The process for removing a Chief Justice is governed by Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution. It outlines that such removal can only occur on grounds of stated misbehavior, incompetence, or inability to perform due to infirmity of body or mind.
Under Article 146, the President, upon receiving a petition, must act in consultation with the Council of State to appoint a committee to investigate the allegations. This committee typically includes Supreme Court Justices and independent members, who assess the petition in a private inquiry before making recommendations.
The President is required to act in line with the committee’s findings, ensuring due process. Proceedings under this article are held in camera to protect the integrity of the investigation and the individuals involved.
Read the petition below:
