The Supreme Court has indefinitely adjourned a case challenging three petitions for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
The adjournment, on Wednesday, April 9, was prompted by the absence of the Attorney General, Dr. Dominic Ayine, who had secured an excuse from the Chief Justice due to an ongoing training for lawyers at the Office of Attorney General. Dr. Ayine had requested an adjournment of all cases from April 7 to April 10.
Justice Henrietta Mensah Bonsu, who presided over the case, decided to adjourn the hearing indefinitely.
However, former Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame, who represents the plaintiff, expressed surprise at the absence of Dr. Ayine and his deputy, Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, due to the training workshop for state attorneys.
It is uncertain when the hearing will resume, as no new date was announced despite Mr. Dame’s request to adjourn until Monday, April 14.
The case, filed by Old Tafo MP Vincent Ekow Assafuah, challenges the constitutional process initiated by former President John Mahama after receiving three petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Torkornoo.
Mr. Assafuah argues that the Chief Justice must be given an opportunity to respond to the allegations before the President consults the Council of State under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution. He claims that failing to notify her beforehand violates her right to a fair hearing and undermines judicial independence.
The Supreme Court was expected to determine whether the President’s actions comply with the constitutional provisions governing the removal of a sitting Chief Justice.
In response, the Chief Justice has officially addressed the petitions following President Mahama’s 10-day ultimatum.
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