Mahama takes action on petitions to remove Chief Justice Torkornoo

**Chief Justice Torkornoo: Mahama Takes Action on Petitions for Removal**

President John Mahama has begun consultations with the Council of State. This follows three petitions to remove Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo. The presidency confirmed Mahama's decision in a statement.

The details of the petitions remain private. The Council of State will review them and advise the President. This process aligns with Article 146 of the Constitution.

Before Mahama took office, President Nana Akufo-Addo dismissed a similar petition. That petition was filed by Stephen Kwaku Asare and cited lack of merit. It accused Torkornoo of misconduct and incompetence.

The allegations included irregularities in panel reconstitution and constitutional breaches. After consulting the Council, Akufo-Addo ruled that the claims did not warrant further investigation.

Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution governs the removal of a Chief Justice. A Justice can only be removed for misbehavior, incompetence, or incapacity due to infirmity. When a petition is received, the President must consult with the Council to appoint an investigative committee.

This committee includes two Supreme Court Justices and three non-members from Parliament or legal professions. They will investigate allegations and make recommendations to the President.

If referred to a committee, the President may suspend the Chief Justice based on advice from the Council. With Mahama referring these petitions officially, much now depends on the committee’s findings.

If they recommend removal, Mahama must act accordingly. This situation is likely to spark intense debate within Ghana’s legal and political circles as stakeholders await decisions from the Council of State.