Kwaku Ansah-Asare, the former Director of the Ghana School of Law, harshly criticized a petition calling for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo. Apexnewsgh reports
He labeled the petition as “mischievous” and urged that it be dismissed, pointing out its lack of merit.
The controversial petition was submitted on December 17, 2024, by Stephen Kwaku Asare, a Ghanaian-American professor and lawyer.
It accuses Chief Justice Torkonoo of engaging in constitutional and administrative breaches, claiming her actions have undermined the credibility and integrity of Ghana’s judiciary. Asare argues that her removal is essential to maintain public confidence in the country’s legal system.
The basis of the petition rests on allegations of misconduct and incompetence, referencing Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, which outlines the procedures for removing a Chief Justice.
However, the timing of the petition has raised eyebrows, coinciding with the impending conclusion of President Akufo-Addo’s term. Critics question whether the motivations behind the petition are genuine, especially since the president will need to adhere to constitutional protocols in addressing the matter.
In his remarks, Ansah-Asare firmly dismissed the accusations against Chief Justice Torkonoo. He explained that her role encompasses significant authority over the judiciary, including the power to transfer judges—a responsibility he deems well within her legal rights. He further elaborated that administrative transfers are standard procedure and should not be considered grounds for impeachment unless they disrupt ongoing cases.
Concluding his defense, Ansah-Asare reiterated his belief that the petition is without substance, characterizing it as “mischievous or wholly without merit,” and he called for it to be tossed aside.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
