How can I defend myself when I don’t even know what I’m defending against? – CJ Torkornoo quizzes

Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo is questioning how to defend herself. She claims she does not know what she is defending against.

In a supplementary affidavit filed with the Supreme Court, Torkornoo alleges violations of her rights. She argues that her treatment during impeachment proceedings is harsher than for treason suspects.

Torkornoo stated she has not been informed of the legal basis for the case against her. She asked, “How can I defend myself when I don’t even know what I’m defending against?”

In her affidavit, she described several troubling developments. These include denying access to her family and searches on her body. She also mentioned restrictions on phones and laptops for herself and her lawyers.

Torkornoo believes these actions are meant to cause mental torture and degrading treatment. “They want to break me,” she said, emphasizing that this treatment is unusual even for treason cases.

She called the Supreme Court a vital protector of judicial independence. “Only you can stop this assault on judicial independence,” she added.

Torkornoo noted that previous Article 146 proceedings were held in judicial facilities. The current high-security location for her case confuses her.

She labeled the process a “mockery of justice.” Torkornoo accused it of being a ruse to unjustly remove her from office.

On May 23, 2025, despite ongoing legal processes, the committee continued its inquiry. Torkornoo warned that this situation threatens every justice's security of tenure.

“What is at stake is the very soul of our Constitution,” she concluded.