The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has issued a formal statement responding to the recent suspension of the Chief Justice of the Republic, Her Ladyship Gertrude Torkornoo, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to the rule of law and the constitutional processes governing such a high-profile removal.
In a press release dated April 24, 2025, the GBA confirmed that its General Council has been closely monitoring the developments surrounding the removal process of the Chief Justice.
The Association disclosed that as of March 27, three petitions for her removal had been submitted, alongside two pending cases before the Supreme Court challenging the legality of the removal proceedings and requesting injunctions.
The GBA reaffirmed its constitutional mandate to protect the legal profession and judicial independence. It referenced Articles 146(6) to 146(10) of the 1992 Constitution, which outline the procedure for removing a Chief Justice, including the establishment of a five-member committee appointed by the President in consultation with the Council of State.
Under these provisions, the committee is tasked with investigating the petitions and making a recommendation to the President on whether the Chief Justice should be removed from office. The Constitution also permits the President, on advice from the Council of State, to suspend the Chief Justice while the process is ongoing. These committee proceedings are required to be conducted in camera.
While acknowledging the legal framework and current sub judice status of the matter, the GBA called on all parties involved to act in accordance with the principles of the rule of law. The statement stressed the importance of discretion and fair procedure as outlined in Article 296 of the Constitution, which governs the exercise of discretionary powers.
“It is expected that persons who play even the minutest role in this process will bear in mind Article 296… and will act in a manner that safeguards and enhances the independence and image of the Judiciary,” the statement read.
The GBA reiterated that justice is a right of the people, administered by the Judiciary under the leadership of the Chief Justice, and warned against actions that could erode public confidence in the judicial system.
Reaffirming its commitment, the GBA stated:
“The GBA shall carry out its mandate to defend, strengthen and enhance confidence in the justice delivery system in Ghana. The GBA shall remain the conscience of society, the voice of the voiceless and act to safeguard the Rule of Law and uphold the Constitution of the Republic which embodies the wishes and aspirations of the people of Ghana. ”
