Godfred Dame: Chief Justice removal probe must be public

Godfred Dame, the legal counsel for suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, opposes private proceedings for her removal. He argues that transparency is crucial due to the public scrutiny she has faced.

In an interview with Citi News on May 22, Dame emphasized that the petition against Torkornoo has been widely discussed. High-ranking government officials have openly criticized her. However, he noted that the state now wants to hold her defense in private.

“It cannot be a secret,” Dame stated. He highlighted the need for fairness and openness in this process. “She has already been damaged in the public domain,” he added.

Dame argued there is no valid reason for a closed-door hearing. He believes the case does not threaten public order or safety. Instead, he feels the government's actions support the need for a public hearing.

“There is nothing which threatens public harm or safety,” he asserted. He believes that what has happened so far requires transparency in these proceedings.

His comments come amid ongoing legal disputes regarding Justice Torkornoo’s suspension. The Chief Justice has filed a motion at the Supreme Court. This motion seeks to stop the presidential committee investigating petitions for her removal.