`Chief Justice Torkornoo: “I Am Not Leaving My Post to Protect the Judicial System — Now and for the Future”
Ghana’s Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, has spoken out for the first time since impeachment proceedings were initiated against her. In a powerful and emotional press statement, she declared her intent to remain in office — not for personal benefit — but to defend the integrity of Ghana’s judiciary against what she described as “unconstitutional attacks and violations of due process.”
Addressing the nation, Justice Torkornoo stated that despite pressure, threats, and a suspension she believes is unlawful, stepping down is not an option.
“If I resign under these circumstances, I will be saying that this flawed, unknown, and opaque process is acceptable. It is not,” she declared.
The Chief Justice revealed that the warrant of suspension issued against her came without a prima facie determination — a requirement under Ghana’s Constitution. She criticized the impeachment process for being secretive, procedurally flawed, and politically motivated.
Justice Torkornoo painstakingly dismantled the various allegations leveled against her by petitioners, including Daniel Ofori, Mr. Okogo, and a group called Shining Stars — some of whom, she noted, are not even registered entities in Ghana.
On Travel Misconduct: She provided evidence that all her travels were within official entitlements as Chief Justice, with all costs covered by lawful policies, not misappropriated funds.
On Judicial Appointments: She clarified that recommendations for judges are made collaboratively by the Chief Justice, Ghana Bar Association, and Attorney General — and that her actions were grounded in long-standing practice and the Constitution.
On Alleged Mismanagement: She revealed that many administrative decisions challenged in the petitions were made before she was appointed Chief Justice, or were mandated by the Judicial Council.
“Every administrative decision I made was supported by my constitutional obligations,” she said, adding, “None of the allegations have any bearing on public safety or my competence to lead.”
Justice Torkornoo raised serious questions about the EduLodge venue chosen for the hearings — a location historically linked to the 1981 murder of judges. She believes its use is symbolic, meant to intimidate and silence her.
She warned that if the current process succeeds, it will set a dangerous precedent:
“Behind me is every judge in this country. If this is successful, it will be tried on anyone. A new standard will be set — where judges must choose between serving justice or pleasing the powerful.”
As a judge of over 21 years and a lawyer for 38, the Chief Justice made a heartfelt appeal to Ghanaians to reflect on what this moment means for Ghana’s democracy:
“I am also a mother and a grandmother who must hope for better than this for our country, its rule of law, and its democracy.”
Despite being suspended, she reaffirmed her respect for the presidency but insisted that she would not remain silent in the face of injustice.
“I choose to trust that such darkness will not totally engulf this nation. May God bless our homeland, Ghana, and make our nation great and strong.”
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For more updates on this developing story, follow 12onlineNEWS.com — Ghana’s trusted source for truth, accountability, and real-time news.
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