- Justice Gertrude Torkornoo was removed from office as Ghana’s Chief Justice by President Mahama.
- The decision followed a petition alleging misconduct, reviewed alongside her response and Council of State advice.
- Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin claims the removal appears politically motivated.
- He stressed that accountability measures should be applied fairly and humanely.
- The move has triggered discussion on the influence of politics in judicial affairs and the independence of the judiciary in Ghana.
The removal of Justice Gertrude Torkornoo from her position as Ghana’s Chief Justice has sparked sharp criticism from Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who believes the action was influenced by politics rather than genuine judicial accountability.
President John Dramani Mahama made the decision following a petition by a Ghanaian citizen, Daniel Ofori, alleging misconduct by the Chief Justice. After reviewing the petition, Justice Torkornoo’s defense, and receiving guidance from the Council of State, the President determined that there was sufficient evidence to initiate the constitutional procedure leading to her removal.
Afenyo-Markin, speaking during a meeting with the UK Minister for International Development, highlighted concerns that the dismissal may have been politically motivated. While acknowledging that upcoming investigations by the new government could address accountability issues, he emphasized that the law should be applied fairly and with due consideration for legal standards and humaneness.
The decision has fueled debate over the balance between judicial independence and political influence in Ghana, with observers closely watching how the government will manage transitions within the judiciary.
