Provide petitions against me for response – Chief Justice to Mahama

Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo has formally written to President John Dramani Mahama, requesting copies of the petitions filed against her that seek her removal from office.

Her request follows the president’s decision to forward three petitions to the Council of State for advice, in line with constitutional provisions.

In her letter, Justice Torkonoo emphasized the need for due process, asking to be given access to the petitions to enable her to prepare an appropriate response.

“I am by this letter humbly and respectfully asking His Excellency the President and eminent members of the Council of State to forward the petitions against me to me and allow me at least seven days after receipt of the same to provide my response to you, which response can then form part of the materials that you conduct the consultation anticipated under 146(6), before the possible setting up of a Committee of Inquiry under article 146(7),” she wrote.

The petitions, whose contents remain undisclosed, have sparked discussions about judicial independence and the legal framework governing the removal of a Chief Justice.