Legal Expert Dismisses GBA’s Call to Reinstate Suspended Chief Justice

Edudzi Tameklo, Acting CEO of the National Petroleum Authority, has rejected the Ghana Bar Association’s resolution urging President Mahama to revoke the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, asserting the President acted in full compliance with constitutional provisions.

The GBA during its April 26 mid-year conference passed a resolution criticizing the suspension process and called for clearer constitutional guidelines regarding judicial removals. Association members, now privy to the petitions and the Chief Justice’s responses, expressed dissatisfaction with the procedural handling of the matter.

However, Tameklo maintained the President’s actions were constitutionally sound during an appearance on TV3’s New Day program. “This resolution carries no legal weight,” he stated. “President Mahama has demonstrated fidelity to constitutional processes. The GBA essentially asks him to violate the same constitution they would later accuse him of disobeying.”

The legal practitioner emphasized that the suspension followed established procedures after a prima facie case was established against Justice Torkornoo. He challenged the GBA’s position, questioning under what constitutional authority the President could unilaterally revoke a properly instituted suspension.

This ongoing debate highlights tensions between judicial independence and executive constitutional responsibilities. While legal professionals advocate for clearer removal protocols, the administration maintains it has followed due process. The standoff reflects broader concerns about institutional safeguards and the interpretation of constitutional provisions governing Ghana’s separation of powers.

Legal analysts note the case may prompt renewed discussions about judicial accountability mechanisms, particularly regarding the threshold for establishing prima facie cases against senior judges. As the process unfolds, it continues to test the balance between maintaining judicial independence and ensuring accountability within Ghana’s democratic framework.