“This is a Threat to Judicial Independence” – Suspended Chief Justice Torkornoo Speaks Out
Suspended Chief Justice of Ghana, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, has broken her silence following her controversial removal proceedings, calling the move “historic” and “a dangerous precedent” for the future of the judiciary and constitutional governance in Ghana.
In a press briefing held on Tuesday, June 25, 2025, Justice Torkornoo raised strong objections to the manner in which her suspension and the removal process were being handled. Her remarks have since stirred national debate on issues of due process, transparency, and the independence of Ghana’s judiciary.
A Historic First in Ghana’s Judicial History
Justice Torkornoo noted that in the 68-year history of Ghana’s judiciary, no Chief Justice has ever been subjected to a removal process. She described the situation as unprecedented and troubling, stating:
“If this model can be tried on the Chief Justice, it can be repeated with everyone.”
She expressed concern that such actions could become tools of intimidation, threatening the independence of judges and other constitutional officers.
Procedural Violations and In-Camera Hearings
According to the suspended Chief Justice, several procedural irregularities have marred the ongoing process. She revealed that the hearings were conducted in secret (in-camera) without any formal charges made available to her or her legal counsel.
Furthermore, Justice Torkornoo said she was denied the opportunity to fully respond to the allegations, adding that the process was “cloaked in secrecy” and riddled with attempts to suppress transparency.
She also revealed that hearings were held at Adu Lodge—a location tied to the infamous 1981 murder of three High Court judges and a retired army officer—suggesting that the venue was selected deliberately to evoke fear and discomfort.
“The very choice of Adu Lodge felt designed to make me feel insecure,” she added.
Call for Transparency and Respect for Due Process
Justice Torkornoo insisted that she had requested a public hearing to allow for greater transparency and accountability, but the request was denied. She emphasized that public scrutiny is essential in cases that concern the integrity of high judicial officers.
“I have nothing to hide. Every document and every record shows I have acted lawfully and in the best interest of Ghana’s judiciary,” she declared.
Rejection of Allegations and Exposure to Threats
Addressing the substance of the allegations against her, Justice Torkornoo firmly denied any wrongdoing. She stated that she had submitted documentation to counter every claim made against her and described the accusations as “baseless and fabricated.”
In a startling disclosure, she also claimed that she had received veiled threats urging her to resign.
“There have been indirect threats and pressures for me to quietly step aside. But I will not abandon the judiciary for the sake of convenience,” she stated resolutely.
A Test for Ghana’s Democratic Institutions
The suspended Chief Justice concluded her address by reminding Ghanaians that this issue transcends her personal ordeal. She said it was about defending the rule of law, preserving judicial independence, and ensuring that no person or group can manipulate the constitution for political or personal gain.
Her speech has since drawn mixed reactions from civil society groups, legal professionals, and political commentators. While some call for a review of the process, others argue that the Chief Justice must be held accountable like any other public official if proven guilty.
As public attention intensifies around this case, it remains to be seen how Parliament and the presidency will respond to growing demands for fairness, transparency, and constitutional integrity in the matter.
Also Read: Revealed – Two new petitions filed against suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo
