By Iddi Yire
Accra, March 28, GNA – Accra, March 28, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama has given Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo 10 days to respond to three petitions calling for her removal from office.
The Chief Justice had earlier written to the President requesting copies of the petitions.
In response, Dr Callistus Mahama, Executive Secretary to the President, said in a letter that she must submit her preliminary response within 10 days.
This would help the President consult with the Council of State.
The President assured the Chief Justice that due process would be followed and that she would have a fair opportunity to present her case.
The President received three petitions from individuals asking for the Chief Justice’s removal.
Two petitions were dated 14th February 2025, and the third was dated 17th March 2025.
He attached copies of these petitions in his response to the Chief Justice.
On 24th March 2025, the President wrote to the Chairman of the Council of State, forwarding the petitions.
He informed the Council that, as required under Article 146(6), he planned to seek the Chief Justice’s initial response.
On 27th March 2025, the Chairman of the Council of State agreed to the President’s request.
Copies of the Chairman’s letters were also attached to the President’s reply to the Chief Justice.
The President was advised that, based on the case of Frank Agyei Twum v Attorney General and Bright Akwetey [2005-2006] SCGLR 732, confidentiality applies to proceedings under Article 146.
This includes all related documents and materials.
However, the President expressed disappointment that the Chief Justice’s letter to him, dated 27th March 2025, was circulating on social media before he could read it.
Reports indicate that her letter was shared as an attachment to another letter she sent to the President of the Association of Magistrates and Judges, and the President of the Ghana Bar Association.
Due to this, the President’s office marked each page of its response as “restricted.”
GNA
BAM/BAS