Ayikoi Otoo questions credibility of reports on Chief Justice’s removal

Former Attorney General Ayikoi Otoo is worried about misinformation. This misinformation concerns the possible removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

Otoo spoke on Joy FM’s Newsfile programme. He questioned the reliability of some reports circulating in public.

He recalled a past incident involving Zanetor Rawlings. Reports claimed she had received a post, but it was false. These reports were on official letterhead from the Office of the President.

His comments come as interest grows in petitions against the Chief Justice. This situation has sparked intense debate in legal and political circles. The specifics of these petitions are not disclosed, leading to speculation and conflicting reports.

Additionally, lawyer Kwame Adofo raised concerns about Ghana’s constitutional framework for removing a Chief Justice. He believes the current system makes the judiciary head vulnerable to political influence.

Adofo explained that making a prima facie case should not be left to politicians or ordinary people. Instead, it should be determined by judges, particularly the Chief Justice.

However, he noted that for the Chief Justice, this determination lies with the President. He considers this arrangement dangerous and highlighted differences in how other Superior Court judges are treated under the Constitution.