Group challenges suspension of Chief Justice at Supreme Court
By DL News
Published
1 min read
The Centre contends that the President’s decision to suspend the Chief Justice disregards key constitutional safeguards outlined in Articles 17(1)–(3), 23, 296, and 146(1)–(4) and (6) of the 1992 Constitution. According to the group, the su...
The Centre for Citizenship, Constitutional and Electoral Systems has petitioned the Supreme Court to reverse the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, citing alleged constitutional breaches by President John Mahama.
The Centre contends that the President’s decision to suspend the Chief Justice disregards key constitutional safeguards outlined in Articles 17(1)–(3), 23, 296, and 146(1)–(4) and (6) of the 1992 Constitution. According to the group, the suspension lacked procedural fairness, discriminated unjustly, and violated administrative due process.
As part of their legal action, the Centre is asking the apex court to declare President Mahama’s handling of the three separate petitions for the Chief Justice’s removal as unconstitutional.
Panel Begins Inquiry into Misconduct Allegations
Despite the legal challenge, a five-member investigative committee is scheduled to begin proceedings today, Thursday, May 15. The panel is chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang and was formed pursuant to Article 146(6) of the Constitution following a prima facie finding against the Chief Justice.
The committee, established in consultation with the Council of State, will sit three times weekly. Upon concluding its review, it will submit its report and recommendations to the President for further action.
Justice Torkornoo faces scrutiny after five petitions were filed accusing her of misconduct. Following the advice of the Council of State, President Mahama suspended her and commissioned the panel to investigate the allegations thoroughly.
