Prof. Kwaku Asare petitions for Chief Justice’s removal over alleged abuse of power

Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare, a renowned legal scholar and advocate, has petitioned the President to initiate proceedings for the removal of Chief Justice Getrude Araba Torkornoo, citing alleged unconstitutional interference in judicial processes and abuse of administrative power.

In his detailed petition, Prof. Asare accused the Chief Justice of unilaterally altering court panel compositions and interfering with judicial proceedings—actions he described as unconstitutional, outdated, and detrimental to public confidence in the judiciary.

He cited multiple cases to support his claim that the Chief Justice had abused her authority and wrongfully exercised her discretion, warranting her removal.

Prof. Asare argued that the Chief Justice’s actions undermine constitutional safeguards designed to protect judicial independence, particularly by reconstituting panels in violation of Article 157(3) of the Constitution.

“Public confidence in the judiciary relies on the perception of fairness and impartiality,” he warned, emphasising that the Chief Justice’s conduct threatens to erode trust and foster internal discord within the judiciary.

Drawing on a historical caution from Prof. S.O. Gyandoh about the dangers of unchecked judicial power, Prof. Asare remarked, “The mayhem is already upon the judiciary, and the bedlam will follow unless swift actions are taken.”

He called on President Nana Akufo-Addo to act under Article 146 of the Constitution to remove the Chief Justice and restore the judiciary’s integrity and public trust.