The Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has strongly defended President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to suspend Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, asserting that the move is firmly grounded in constitutional provisions.
The suspension follows the establishment of a prima facie case in relation to three petitions seeking the Chief Justice’s removal from office.
The decision, taken in line with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State, paves way for a formal inquiry into the conduct of Ghana’s highest-ranking judicial officer.
In an interview, Kwakye Ofosu emphasized that the suspension should not be misconstrued as a declaration of guilt.
He described it as a necessary constitutional step to ensure due process.
“I’m not sure how abiding by the Constitution becomes a bad precedent. President Mahama took an oath to stay true and loyal and abide by the 1992 Constitution. That is what he has done in this instance”.
He further explained that the President’s actions were guided by the Constitution, which mandates the establishment of a five-member committee to investigate the allegations.