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The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has called for strict adherence to due process and the rule of law, in dealing with petitions for removal the Chief Justice, Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo from office.
In the statement, released on Thursday, April 24, 2025, the GBA said it has been closely following developments over the past two months. As of March 27, 2025, three petitions had been submitted and two legal cases filed in connection with the Chief Justice’s removal.
Referring to Articles 146 (6) and (7) of the 1992 Constitution, the GBA highlighted the procedure for such a removal. It stated that, upon receiving a petition, the President—after consulting the Council of State—must appoint a committee to investigate. This committee should include a Supreme Court Justice as chair, along with three members who are not lawyers, Members of Parliament, or Council of State members.
The GBA also referenced Articles 146 (8) to (10), which require that the committee’s work be done privately and that the President act based on the committee’s recommendation and the Council of State’s advice.
While upholding the legality of the process, the GBA emphasized the need to protect judicial independence. It urged all those involved to be guided by the Constitution, especially Article 296, which governs the fair use of discretion.
“The GBA will continue to fulfill its mandate to protect and strengthen public confidence in the justice system.”
