Martin Amidu Calls Out Godfred Dame Over ‘in camera’ proceedings remark in CJ case

Former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu has criticized former Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame. He mockingly called him the “Telephone Man.” Amidu disagrees with Dame's views on the constitutional process involving Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

In an open letter, Amidu took issue with Dame's suggestion. Dame argued that proceedings for the Chief Justice’s possible removal should be public. He claimed this would ensure transparency due to public interest in the case.

Amidu countered that Dame’s stance contradicts constitutional clarity and judicial precedent. He expressed surprise at a former Attorney-General making such claims. Amidu suggested that Dame might be ignoring the law or seeking attention.

He referenced Article 146(8) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution. This article mandates that removal proceedings for Superior Court justices must be held privately, or in camera. It states: “All proceedings under this article shall be held in camera.”

Amidu emphasized that as a former Attorney-General, Dame should know this. He reminded readers of three significant Supreme Court rulings on this matter. The most recent was Dery v. Tiger Eye PI and Others.

The Supreme Court highlighted that in-camera proceedings protect judicial integrity and reputations. They also shield potential witnesses from reprisals.

Amidu quoted the Court’s conclusion: “The rights of the people were merely postponed… These clear constitutional provisions must be respected.”

His comments add to ongoing debates about Ghana’s judiciary's integrity and transparency. The Chief Justice's office is currently under intense scrutiny. Amidu's critique of Dame reflects growing tension among Ghana’s legal elites regarding this case.