Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has vowed to vigorously contest the proceedings initiated to remove her from office, describing the process as deeply unjust and lacking transparency.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra, the suspended Chief Justice rejected calls to resign or retire amid the ongoing Article 146 tribunal, emphasizing that stepping down would imply acceptance of a flawed process driven by political motives.
Torkornoo disclosed that her request for a public hearing was denied, with proceedings held in secrecy she claims is being exploited to conceal an agenda.
She outlined numerous procedural irregularities, including the committee’s refusal to recognize her legal counsel initially, withholding specific allegations against her, and barring key petitioners from testifying, which denied her the chance for cross-examination.
Addressing accusations related to her travel expenses, she admitted to returning a significant portion of funds received and dismissed other claims as baseless or arising from unregistered entities. She revealed she has filed for judicial review in the High Court seeking to declare the entire removal process void, warning that despite the secretive nature of the proceedings, the evidence will prove all allegations unfounded.
Chief Justice Torkornoo further revealed that she has faced threats aimed at coercing her resignation, but affirmed her commitment to uphold justice and integrity rather than retreat under pressure. She urged the public to recognize the gravity of undermining judicial independence and insisted her fight is about defending the rule of law, not clinging to power.
