CJ's removal brouhaha: The initial error came from President - Baffour Awuah

Manhyia South MP Baffour Awuah says the petition to remove Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo had a procedural error. He claims this error came from President John Mahama's office.

Awuah spoke on JoyNews' Newsfile on Thursday. He said the mishandling of the communique happened within the presidential administration.

He expressed that the President's disappointment with the Chief Justice was misplaced. "The initial error came from the President," he stated.

He believes most of the blame lies with the presidency. The Chief Justice deserves respect as head of one government branch, he added.

**Background**

President Mahama has shown disappointment over a leaked letter from CJ Torkornoo. This letter appeared on social media before he could review it.

Callistus Mahama, Secretary to the President, highlighted these concerns in an official letter. The President received three petitions to remove Justice Torkornoo for alleged misconduct.

In response, Mahama has given Torkornoo 10 days to submit a preliminary response. The petitions were sent to the Council of State for consultation, as required by Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution.

The process faces legal challenges now. Old Tafo MP Vincent Assafuah filed an injunction at the Supreme Court to stop removal proceedings.

The Court will hear this application on April 2, 2025. Additionally, Chief Justice Torkornoo has requested copies of the petitions for her response.

She is concerned about her correspondence being circulated prematurely. These events highlight the complexity of Article 146's constitutional process for removing justices, including the Chief Justice.

This procedure requires consultations with the Council of State and forming a committee to investigate allegations and recommend actions.