Suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, on Wednesday publicly criticized the ongoing impeachment proceedings against her, alleging that the choice of venue and lack of transparency are deliberate efforts to intimidate and marginalize her.

In a sharply worded public address, Justice Torkornoo said the committee investigating allegations of misconduct is operating from a high-security facility on Castle Drive in Osu—far removed from traditional Judicial Service locations used for such proceedings since 1993. She argued that the location, combined with the closed-door nature of the hearings, amounts to an intentional erosion of her rights and public accountability.

“It is hard not to conclude that the choice of venue, against the backdrop of secrecy of proceedings, is intended to intimidate me and prevent any citizen of Ghana from knowing how the process is being conducted,” she said.

Justice Torkornoo, who was suspended on April 22 by President John Dramani Mahama following a prima facie finding in consultation with the Council of State, outlined a series of procedural grievances she claims have compromised her ability to defend herself.

Among her accusations:

• Her legal representation was disregarded during the initial hearing because she was not physically present with her counsel,
• Specific charges were not disclosed, impairing her ability to mount a defense, and
• Certain petitioners, including individuals identified as Daniel Ofori and Shining Stars, were allowed to opt out of testifying, which she says undermines the credibility of the process.

Torkornoo also alleged she has been subjected to invasive security protocols inconsistent with the dignity of her office, including personal searches and restrictions on entry with family members.

“I have been searched physically, and my handbag has been inspected before every appearance. Such treatment is inconsistent with courtesies extended to the Chief Justice both locally and internationally,” she said.

The proceedings are being conducted under Article 146 of Ghana’s Constitution, which allows for closed hearings in judicial disciplinary matters. A five-member committee is overseeing the inquiry. Torkornoo’s efforts to halt the proceedings through four separate legal actions—including one filed in her personal capacity—have all been dismissed by the Supreme Court.

While the government maintains that the investigation is legally sound and free of political interference, the Chief Justice’s public statement marks an escalation in what has become a politically charged and constitutionally delicate confrontation between the judiciary and the executive.

Source:TheDotNews