Is your husband always by your side when hearing cases in court? — Solomon Owusu quizzes Justice Torkornoo

A leading member of the Movement for Change, Solomon Owusu, has weighed in on claims of human rights abuses by suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo, in her ongoing removal processes.

In court documents filed at the Supreme Court challenging the proceedings, she, among other things, complained that her husband and family are prevented from entering the venue.

However, speaking on Accra-based TV3’s New Day show on Wednesday, July 9, Mr. Owusu questioned the relevance of the Chief Justice’s concerns, asking whether her husband’s presence would change anything.

“She said her husband was not allowed into the hall and described it as a human rights abuse. Maybe when the husband is not by her side, she cannot deliver. But the question is, anytime she’s writing her ruling, is the husband by her side?” Owusu quizzed.

He also accused Justice Torkornoo of breaching Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution, which mandates in-camera hearings and absolute secrecy in removal proceedings.

The politician argued that her public press conference violated these provisions.

“Article 146 says all proceedings must be heard in camera. This woman looked straight into your face and mine and flouted the constitution by making public commentary. That’s lawless. She can be cited for contempt,” Owusu said.

Meanwhile, the suspended Chief Justice has filed a lawsuit against the Republic of Ghana at the ECOWAS Community Court in Abuja, Nigeria.

She alleges human rights violations during hearings by the five-member committee probing petitions for her removal.

Justice Torkornoo earlier claimed in Ghanaian courts that her treatment by the committee investigating her for alleged misconduct is worse than what treason suspects face.

She described the process as degrading, inhumane, and unconstitutional.

Her suspension on April 22 followed three separate petitions filed for her removal, prompting President John Mahama to establish the committee to investigate the allegations.