In-camera hearing of Chief Justice petitions undermines human rights – Prof. Mike Ocquaye

Former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Aaron Mike Ocquaye, opposes the in-camera hearing. This hearing concerns petitions against suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

The Chief Justice was suspended after President John Mahama found a prima facie case. This decision followed consultations with the Council of State and Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution. The suspension coincides with calls for her removal from office.

In an interview with JoyNews on May 8, 2025, Prof. Ocquaye stressed the need for transparency. He believes that secret trials harm public trust and accountability.

“If it is going to be a secret trial, I won’t appear,” he stated. “I would prefer the world to hear the issues.” He added that he would step back if evidence proved otherwise.

Prof. Ocquaye highlighted that transparency is crucial in Ghana's controversial public matters.

“Putting a person in a room and coming out later to say what happened there only deepens confusion,” he said.

He emphasized upholding human rights during the proceedings. A fair and open trial is necessary for justice to be seen as done.

“It is a human rights issue,” he concluded. “The rights of the accused must be examined carefully.”