Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo will return to her post if she is cleared of wrongdoing, the Presidency has assured, following her recent suspension to allow for an impartial investigation into multiple petitions against her.
Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Shamima Muslim made the clarification during an appearance on Original FM/TV’s Adwenekasa programme on Tuesday. She emphasized that President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to suspend the Chief Justice strictly follows the legal process outlined in Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution.
“This is not a conviction. It’s a constitutional procedure to investigate serious allegations,” Muslim explained. “If she is found not guilty, she will be reinstated.”
The President took the action after consultations with the Council of State, in line with constitutional provisions. A five-member committee has been formed to look into the allegations in detail.
In response to criticism from some quarters, the Presidency rejected claims that President Mahama had violated the Constitution. “Following the Constitution cannot be interpreted as a breach of it,” Muslim said.
The statement is seen as an effort to ease tensions and reassure the public that due process is being followed in the case of the country’s top judicial officer.
