Sam Okudzeto, a former member of the Council of State, has expressed serious doubts over the possibility of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo returning to her position after the conclusion of the ongoing investigation into several petitions filed against her.
Speaking to TV3 monitored by News and Vibes, Okudzeto emphasized that even if the committee investigating Torkornoo clears her of any misconduct, he is not convinced she will be reinstated.
Okudzeto acknowledged that President John Mahama followed the constitutional process in suspending the Chief Justice, but suggested that the timing of the multiple petitions against her raises concerns.
He noted that a similar petition against Torkornoo was dismissed under the administration of former President Akufo-Addo, only for new petitions to emerge under Mahama’s leadership.
The legal expert was particularly wary about the political implications of the public’s involvement in such matters.
He warned that the resurgence of petitions could undermine public trust in the judiciary, questioning the motives behind these new claims and suggesting they might be politically driven.
In his statement, Okudzeto alluded to the delicate balance between judicial independence and public influence, saying that it could be damaging for democracy if the judicial process is too swayed by public pressure.
The committee currently tasked with investigating Torkornoo’s case includes notable individuals such as Justices Gabriel Scott Pwamang and Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu of the Supreme Court, as well as other distinguished figures.
With Torkornoo’s suspension still in effect, the legal community and political circles remain watchful as the investigation unfolds.
Okudzeto’s comments add a layer of complexity to the situation, casting doubt on whether the Chief Justice will ever return to her post or if this will mark a turning point in her career.
With public sentiment divided, all eyes are on the outcome of the ongoing probe and the potential repercussions for Ghana’s judicial system.
