"A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush, but when the bush is on fire, you must act swiftly. President Mahama has taken bold steps in suspending the Chief Justice, following allegations of misconduct and abuse of power, and the nation awaits the outcome of the full inquiry.
Meanwhile, the Office of the President has received two new petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo from office. This brings the total number of removal petitions against her to five. The first three petitions were submitted on February 14 and March 17, 2025.
The new petitions claim the Chief Justice has misconducted herself and abused her power. However, the details of the petitions are confidential, as per Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution. President John Dramani Mahama suspended the Chief Justice on April 22, 2025, after a committee found a prima facie case against her.
The President's action has sparked a national debate about judicial independence and the potential politicization of constitutional processes. Some people believe the government is pursuing a political agenda, while others think the constitutional process is being followed properly.
Chief Justice Torkornoo was given 10 days to respond to the original petitions, which she did on April 7. After reviewing her response, it was determined that the allegations warranted a full investigation. Now, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie will act as Chief Justice in the interim.
The suspension has received mixed reactions from the public. Some critics accuse the government of having a hidden agenda, while others support the constitutional process. Former NPP parliamentary candidate Akosua Manu warns of a potential "judicial capture."
Legal analysts like Prof. H. Kwasi Prempeh of CDD-Ghana advocate for more transparency in the removal proceedings. They believe the grounds and outcomes should be made public to maintain public confidence in the judiciary.
President Mahama has completed 100 days in office and has shown exceptional leadership and transparency in handling this matter. His commitment to upholding the rule of law and allowing the constitutional process to take its course is commendable.
In conclusion, President Mahama's leadership is exemplary. "When the elephant walks, the grass bends.".
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