The removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has reignited concerns about the independence of Ghana’s judiciary. Kow Abaka Essuman, reacting to the development, warned that secrecy surrounding the process could deepen doubts about political interference.
He noted that several prominent figures — including former Chief Justices Sophia Akuffo and Kwasi Anin Yeboah — appeared before the committee in defense of Torkornoo. Yet, the public remains in the dark about the evidence considered.
“Given the gravity of the issues, the calibre of witnesses, and the far-reaching implications for the independence of the Judiciary, it is imperative that the Ghanaian public be fully apprised of what transpired,” Essuman said.
He cautioned that without disclosure, the episode could set a dangerous precedent, where petitions against judicial officers become partisan tools.
“Transparency in this matter would help safeguard the reputation of both the Judiciary and the Presidency, assure the public of the integrity of the process, and deter frivolous or politically motivated petitions in the future,” he argued.
