Former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu has voiced serious concerns over the unfolding process to remove Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, cautioning that what should be a constitutionally guided and confidential procedure is increasingly becoming politicized.
In an open letter dated May 26, 2025, Amidu criticized the government’s early public disclosure of the removal petitions as “worrying” and “displeasing.” This follows a March 25 announcement by the Minister for Government Communications revealing that President John Dramani Mahama had consulted the Council of State on three petitions seeking the Chief Justice’s removal under Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution.
Amidu’s stance echoes that of legal veteran Sam Okudzeto, who expressed dismay over the public handling of the matter, stating that such petitions should remain confidential until a prima facie case is established.
The situation intensified when Vincent Ekow Assafuah, an NPP Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, filed a writ at the Supreme Court to halt the petition process. The suit, filed on March 27 and backed by former Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame’s law firm, also sought an interlocutory injunction to suspend related proceedings.
Amidu questioned the involvement of Dame, highlighting his previous role in Chief Justice Torkornoo’s appointment during the NPP government, and warned that the constitutional petition is now being overshadowed by political maneuvering.
“What started as a constitutional petition has taken a political turn,” Amidu noted, urging that the process be handled with the integrity and discretion it demands to protect judicial independence.
