Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has raised serious concerns over the fairness and transparency of the impeachment process against her, claiming that procedural lapses and biased treatment have undermined her constitutional right to a fair hearing.
Addressing the press on Wednesday, Justice Torkornoo criticised the five-member committee investigating her conduct for allowing two of the petitioners—businessman Daniel Ofori and a group called Shining Stars—to abstain from presenting evidence or testifying.
“The committee has gone on to permit two of the petitioners, Daniel Ofori and Shining Stars, not to testify at all or present what case they brought to them at the hearing,” she said.
She described the decision as deeply troubling, arguing that it deprives her of the opportunity to respond to the allegations and cross-examine her accusers. “Such procedural decisions not only erode my right to a fair hearing but also damage public trust in the constitutional process itself,” she said.
Among other grievances, Justice Torkornoo alleged that her legal representative was ignored on the first day of the hearing and that the charges against her were not formally presented. She also detailed how her movements and personal belongings have been subject to invasive searches.
“Before I enter, there is a thorough search of my body and my handbag in violation of protocols and courtesies extended to any Chief Justice,” she stated.
Her family members have been barred from attending the hearings, a restriction she described as part of a broader pattern of psychological pressure.
Justice Torkornoo was suspended on April 22, 2025, by President John Dramani Mahama, following the establishment of a prima facie case by the Council of State. The process falls under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution and is being conducted in-camera, as permitted by law.
Despite filing four separate legal challenges—including one in her own name—all were dismissed by the Supreme Court, clearing the way for the controversial proceedings to continue.
