Mahama authored petitions against Chief Justice – John Boadu alleges

John Boadu, former Director-General of the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), has made serious allegations. He claims that President John Dramani Mahama wrote the petitions to remove Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo. This comes as a process is underway to seek her removal, causing political controversy.

According to Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution, petitions for removing a Chief Justice must go to the President. The President then refers it to the Council of State. If there is enough evidence, a committee investigates further.

In Chief Justice Torkonoo's case, three initial petitions were submitted by different individuals. These petitions reportedly followed the constitutional process. Later, two more petitions were filed, all calling for her removal.

Boadu spoke at the "Save the Judiciary" demonstration on May 5, 2025. This event was organized by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and other political parties. He referenced comments from NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia and President Mahama as evidence for his claims.

"Asiedu Nketia often says that they will reset the judiciary," Boadu stated. "President Mahama said they would change the Chief Justice." He expressed surprise that Mahama might have written the petitions himself.

When Channel One News’ Hanson Agyeman asked if he was suggesting this or stating a fact, Boadu replied firmly. "I am stating it as a fact," he said. "He has publicly said they will change the Chief Justice."