The government has strongly pushed back against the public remarks made by suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Sackey Torkornoo, with Government Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu labelling her statement as “most regrettable.”
Speaking to the press on Wednesday, June 25, Kwakye Ofosu underscored President John Dramani Mahama’s unwavering commitment to constitutional governance and due process, regardless of the stature of the individual involved.
According to him, the presidency has handled the matter within the strict confines of the 1992 Constitution and will not bend the law to accommodate public sentiment or personal status.
The suspended Chief Justice had earlier addressed the media, breaking her silence for the first time since her suspension. She alleged that the disciplinary process initiated against her was fraught with irregularities, procedural violations, and undue political influence designed to force her out of office.
However, Kwakye Ofosu defended the government’s actions, stating that the process currently underway adheres entirely to Article 146 of the Constitution, which provides the legal framework for handling misconduct allegations against superior court judges.
He cautioned against attempts to politicise or undermine the process, stating, “We cannot abandon the Constitution just because of the personality involved. The law must apply to all equally.”
Justice Torkornoo was suspended following multiple petitions alleging abuse of authority and professional misconduct. The President, acting on constitutional provisions, referred the matter to the Council of State, which recommended the formation of an investigative committee. That committee, chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang, is now probing the allegations.
In her address, Justice Torkornoo raised serious concerns about the committee’s operations. She accused it of procedural failings, such as failing to present her with formal charges, denying her access to legal counsel, and operating with limited transparency. She also questioned Justice Pwamang’s impartiality, citing his past association with her on a panel linked to one of the petitions.
But the government insists that the investigative process has not been compromised. Kwakye Ofosu reiterated that no one, regardless of office, can bypass the Constitution. “The courts have always held Ghanaians accountable to the law, and members of the judiciary are no exception,” he said.
He concluded by reminding the public that the outcome of the process will rest solely on the findings of the investigative committee and the President’s subsequent actions, not on media narratives or public pressure.
