Former Tamale Central MP Inusah Fuseini has explained that the quest to remove Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo must follow constitutional procedures.
According to him, if a committee is set up to probe the basis for her removal, the Chief Justice would have to be suspended during the investigation.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, the lawyer noted that this is not the first time petitions have been submitted seeking the removal of Chief Justices.
His statement follows the three petitions forwarded by President John Mahama to the Council of State, requesting the removal of Justice Gertrude Torkonoo.
However, some Ghanaians, including Manhyia South MP and lawyer Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, have cautioned against any removal without substantial grounds, warning of the long-term consequences for Ghana’s judiciary and governance.
Mr. Fuseini clarified that the Council of State’s role is limited to determining whether the petition presents a prima facie case, warranting the formation of a committee.
“If they analyze the petition and conclude that it lacks substance, they will advise the President that there is no prima facie case.
“But if a prima facie case is established, a five-member committee—comprising two lawyers and three non-lawyers, chaired by a Justice of the Superior Court—will be set up to investigate the matter. Their findings and recommendations will then be binding on the President. During the investigation, the Chief Justice will be suspended by the President,” he explained.
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