Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has issued a strong rebuke against the ongoing proceedings seeking her removal from office, describing the process as fundamentally unjust and constitutionally flawed.
In a supplementary affidavit filed at the Supreme Court, Justice Torkornoo criticized the committee led by Justice Gabriel Pwamang, alleging it has strayed from principles of fairness and due process. She contends that the proceedings have been orchestrated to damage her reputation and deny her fundamental rights.
Justice Torkornoo expressed concern over the unusual venue for the hearings—the Osu Castle—arguing that it is an inappropriate and intimidating location, unlike the Judicial Service’s Court Complex where similar inquiries have previously been held. According to her, the choice of this fortified government facility appears calculated to exert psychological pressure on her.
She further asserted that the committee failed to provide a legal explanation for the prima facie case established against her, thereby undermining her ability to understand and respond to the allegations effectively.
Another major point of contention raised in her affidavit was the scheduling of hearings without her consent or the availability of her legal counsel. This, she stated, occurred despite informing the committee about a pending legal challenge at the Supreme Court and her counsel’s prior commitments.
Justice Torkornoo also challenged the committee’s decision to allow the petitioners to present their claims through witnesses rather than appearing in person. She believes this contradicts the principles of transparent and accountable justice.
In addition to procedural concerns, the Chief Justice detailed a series of personal indignities she endured during the process, including being denied access to her mobile phone, subjected to body searches, and barred from having her family present during the sessions. Meanwhile, she observed that the petitioners’ legal team was granted more leniency, including access to phones—raising questions about fairness and impartiality.
Justice Torkornoo argued that these experiences have imposed significant psychological stress and appear to be deliberate attempts to undermine her resolve. She emphasized that her challenge is not merely about defending her position, but about protecting the integrity of Ghana’s judicial system.
Source: MyNewsGh.com
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