Suspended CJ Torkornoo has ‘shot herself in the foot’ for going to Supreme Court – Ansa-Asare

Kwaku Ansa-Asare

Former Director of the Ghana School of Law, Kwaku Ansa-Asare, has voiced strong disapproval of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo’s decision to challenge her suspension and the ongoing removal process at the Supreme Court.

Speaking on 3FM’s Hot Edition on Wednesday, May 21, Ansa-Asare argued that the Chief Justice’s legal move could have far-reaching negative implications for her future relationship with the Executive.

“The Chief Justice has shot herself wrongly in the foot by commencing the instant proceedings. It is not good for her, it is not good for the country, it is not good for democracy,” he stated.

According to Ansa-Asare, as the head of the Judiciary, Justice Torkornoo should have embraced the constitutional processes governing her potential removal rather than opposing them. He emphasized that the procedures being followed are clearly outlined in Ghana’s 1992 Constitution and are essential to the country’s legal framework.

“This is a process that the Chief Justice herself ought to appreciate that it is embedded in the constitution of 1992 of the Republic of Ghana that the CJ removal process is chronological.

“It is target from A to Z and therefore she being the Head of the Judiciary should rather assist in upholding the rule of law which is the cornerstone of the administration of justice,” he added.

Ansa-Asare further cautioned that by initiating legal proceedings, the Chief Justice may have irreparably damaged her professional relationship with the Presidency—even if the petitions seeking her removal are eventually dismissed.

“By bringing this action, she has closed the door. Before the door had been slung but the key was left hanging so that one day she can go and take the key unlock and enter but what she has done now, even if the petition fails, I don't think that she can ever work with the Executive again. It is a wrong move,” he asserted.

He also advised Justice Torkornoo to reconsider her legal representation, suggesting that Attorney General Godfred Dame, who is leading her defense, may not be the best choice due to perceived emotional involvement in the matter.

“I have cautioned and suggested that Godfred Dame should take a back stage and she should allow people who are less emotionally attached as far as this matter is concerned,” Ansa-Asare concluded.