Private citizen challenges procedure in Chief Justice removal process

A new legal challenge has been filed by Ebenezer Osei-Owusu. He is questioning the process to remove Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo.

The lawsuit claims this process violates her right to a fair hearing. The plaintiff argues that the steps taken do not follow due process. This undermines the independence of the judiciary.

The lawsuit states that the President must provide copies of removal petitions. The Chief Justice should have a chance to respond before any action is taken.

This legal action follows a previous suit by former Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame. He represented Vincent Ekow Assafuah, an MP challenging the removal proceedings. Both cases argue that the process is politically motivated and weakens judicial autonomy.

Osei-Owusu seeks an order to recall any removal petitions sent by the President. He also requests appropriate court directions regarding these declarations.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court will hear an injunction application on April 2, 2025. This application was filed by MP Vincent Assafuah against the President's removal procedure.

This decision comes after Chief Justice Torkonoo requested copies of three petitions for her removal. She copied other stakeholders in her letter to the President.

Her request followed Assafuah's suit at the Supreme Court about how these petitions are being handled.