Broadcast journalist Omanhene Kwabena Asante has condemned the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Torkornoo by President John Mahama.
According to a statement signed by the Spokesperson to the President and Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the suspension follows the establishment of a prima facie case against the Chief Justice by the President, in consultation with the Council of State, in relation to three petitions filed against Justice Torkornoo. "President John Dramani Mahama has, in accordance with Article 146(6) of the Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State, determined that a prima facie case has been established in respect of three petitions against the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo," the statement, dated Tuesday, April 22, 2025, stated.
The statement said, the President has also established a five-member committee, in compliance with constitutional provisions, to inquire into the petitions, which have been referred to the committee.
But commenting on the issue on Asempa FM, monitored by GhanaWeb on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, Omanhene Kwabena Asante stated that the suspension sets a dangerous precedent that could embolden future governments to remove public officers they are uncomfortable with. "I feel that we have still not understood what we are doing to ourselves as a nation.
