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Sunday, May 18, 2025

‘The Issue Is the Process, Not the Removal’ – Frank Davies Criticizes Public Debate on Chief Justice

Frank Davies, Director of Legal Affairs for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has expressed deep concerns over the politicization of the ongoing discussions surrounding the potential removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo as reported by MyNewsGH.

Speaking on Newsfile on JoyNews, Davies emphasized that the issue is not the removal itself, which is constitutionally permissible, but rather how it is being debated in the public sphere.

“It’s not the removal, per se, of a Chief Justice which is the problem,” Davies stated. “It is the constitutional structure where it is founded. If there is a valid basis for the removal of a Chief Justice, it should not be too contentious.”

However, Davies raised alarm over how the matter is being distorted by some influential figures.

He described this as an “aberration,” stating that when discussions are clouded with misinformation, it undermines the integrity of the process.

President John Dramani Mahama has officially received three petitions calling for the removal of Chief Justice Torkornoo. These petitions accuse the Chief Justice of misconduct, abuse of office, and questionable rulings, including one involving the Speaker of Parliament.

The allegations also mention her advice to the President on judicial appointments and the misapplication of GH¢75,000.

The petitions have been forwarded to the Council of State, following the procedures outlined in Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution.

As part of the process, Justice Torkornoo has responded to the allegations, submitting her formal response to both the presidency and the Council of State.

A decision on whether to form a committee for further investigation is pending.

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