Suspended CJ deserves say in trial venue – Former Ghana Law School Director

Former Director of the Ghana School of Law, Kwaku Ansa-Asare, has strongly asserted that Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, currently under suspension, has every right to be consulted on the venue of proceedings related to her possible removal from office.

In an interview on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Tuesday, Mr. Ansa-Asare emphasized that while the Chief Justice faces an inquiry, her constitutional rights and the dignity of her office must remain intact.

Constitutional Grounds and Dignity at Stake

Referencing Article 18 of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, Mr. Ansa-Asare underscored the right to a fair hearing, noting that considerations of public interest, morality, and security should guide the selection of a venue.

He questioned the rationale behind excluding the Chief Justice from discussions on the location of proceedings, especially when it directly affects her.

Not a Criminal, But a Sitting CJ Under Scrutiny

Ansa-Asare drew a clear line between the ongoing inquiry and criminal proceedings, warning against the tendency to treat Justice Torkornoo like an ordinary accused individual.

“This is not just any judicial officer—this is the Chief Justice of the Republic,” he stressed. “She is not standing trial as a criminal defendant and must not be treated as such.”

Background and Broader Implications

His comments come in the wake of national conversations around the procedural fairness and political undertones of the chief justice’s suspension and ongoing investigation. Calls for transparency and adherence to constitutional safeguards have grown louder, as some observers raise alarms over the integrity of the process.