Sophia Akuffo’s criticism of CJ removal process undermines integrity of inquiry committee — Martin Amidu

Former Special Prosecutor, Martin Amidu, has criticised former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo for attacking the constitutional provision used by President John Dramani Mahama to suspend Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo.

The former Chief Justice, who is also a member of the Council of State—a body the President consulted on the petitions seeking the Chief Justice’s removal—has urged the Constitutional Review Committee (CRC) to recommend the review of Article 146, describing it as unfair.

“The current constitutional processes outlined in Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution for suspending and removing the Chief Justice is unfair and must be reviewed,” she reportedly said.

Ms. Akuffo also suggested that the CRC consider amending the current constitutional provisions to make the removal process more stringent. She further called for the inclusion of a right of appeal for any Chief Justice found guilty by a committee.

Reacting to this in an opinion editorial dated May 15, Mr. Amidu argued that her comments risk undermining the integrity and independence of the inquiry committee, especially considering her role in the consultative process that determined a prima facie case.

“By advocating for amendments of Article 146…the Council of State member is expressing doubt about the integrity of the committee appointed by the President after an in camera consultation with the Council of State in the pending petitions for the removal of the current Chief Justice,” he said.

Mr. Amidu further contended that Ms. Akuffo’s criticism is influenced by political and family interests, not by genuine concerns about the effectiveness of the removal process.