In a formal letter dated March 27, 2025, Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo has asked President John Dramani Mahama for copies of petitions calling for her removal from office. Justice Torkornoo, in her request addressed to both the President and the Council of State, stated that she would need at least seven days to review the petitions upon receiving them. This would allow her to craft an informed response before any investigation into the matter begins.
The Chief Justice’s letter follows President Mahama’s action of forwarding the petitions to the Council of State for consideration. However, Justice Torkornoo pointed out that she had not yet received the petitions, despite them being sent to the Council of State. In accordance with Article 146 of the Constitution, she emphasized her right to respond to such petitions, which is a standard procedure for all judges, including the Chief Justice.
Citing a 2005 Supreme Court ruling, she further argued that both the evidence from the petition and her response should be considered together during consultations between the President and the Council of State. This combination would help determine if a prima facie case exists for her removal and if a Committee of Inquiry should be established.
Justice Torkornoo has handled similar cases before, emphasizing that the process ensures fairness and due diligence in addressing such serious petitions.
