Two formal petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo have brought serious allegations to the fore - from constitutional breaches to misconduct in the courtroom.
While she has firmly denied all accusations, the contents of the petitions have ignited public interest and calls for judicial transparency. 1.
Breach of constitutional procedure in judicial appointments Filed by: Shining Stars of Ghana (represented by Kingsley Agyei) The group accused the Chief Justice of overstepping her mandate by writing to then-President Akufo-Addo recommending the appointment of five Justices of the Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court - allegedly without proper consultation with the Judicial Council.
According to the petitioners, this act violated Article 144 of the 1992 Constitution and demonstrated "incompetence" in the administration of judicial procedures. "We believe this undermines the integrity of the judiciary and calls for her removal," the petition stated. 2.
