Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has lamented the dismissal of Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, describing it as an unfortunate event that has weakened Ghana’s judicial system.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with TV3’s Joseph Ackah-Blay on Tuesday, Madam Akuffo said she was distressed by the development, calling it an avoidable process. “I am deeply saddened, not just for the person involved but for the institution. We have been dragged into an unnecessary episode that, to me, has harmed the judiciary,” she said.
She questioned whether the allegations used as grounds for Justice Torkornoo’s removal justified such an outcome. “The issues raised did not carry the seriousness required to remove the Chief Justice, the head of our justice system,” she emphasized.
Madam Akuffo also voiced concern about Article 146 of the Constitution, which governs the dismissal of superior court judges. Recalling her earlier criticisms during the Agyei-Twum case, she argued that flaws in the procedure have once again been exposed, particularly in relation to the Chief Justice.
She confirmed appearing before the committee to testify in favour of Justice Torkornoo and expressed no regrets. “I would do it again without hesitation — any day, anywhere,” she affirmed.
The former Chief Justice criticised the way witness identities were handled, noting that those who supported the Chief Justice were openly exposed while petitioners’ witnesses remained anonymous.
She also denounced the tone of the proceedings. “Although it wasn’t a criminal trial, it was conducted as though it were a treason case, and that was unfair,” she said.
Justice Torkornoo’s removal was announced on September 1 after President John Dramani Mahama acted on the advice of a five-member committee chaired by Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang. The panel upheld parts of a petition from businessman Daniel Ofori, citing acts of misbehaviour under Article 146(1).
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