President John Mahama has given Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo a 10-day deadline to provide a preliminary response to three petitions calling for her removal from office.
The petitions, which allege misconduct and abuse of power, were submitted by three individuals on February 14 and March 17, 2025.
A letter signed by Callistus Mahama, the Secretary to the President, notified the Chief Justice of this directive.
On Thursday, March 27, the Chief Justice formally requested copies of the petitions.
This development follows an earlier letter sent by President Mahama to Doe Adjaho, Chairman of the Council of State, on March 24, 2025.
In this letter, the President forwarded the petitions for consultation, in line with the requirements of Article 146(6) of the Constitution.
In the letter, President Mahama confirmed that the Council of State had given its consent to proceed with the consultation process.
The petitions were then forwarded to the Chief Justice for her initial comments.
On March 27, 2025, the President raised concerns over a letter from Chief Justice Torkornoo, dated the same day, which was leaked to social media before he had the opportunity to review it.
The process for the removal of the Chief Justice is governed by Article 146 of the Constitution, which outlines specific steps and requirements for such a petition.
This includes setting up a committee for inquiry and involving the Council of State in the process.
In cases involving the Chief Justice, the President, in consultation with the Council of State, is responsible for appointing a committee to review the petition and make recommendations regarding the Chief Justice’s removal.
This procedural framework ensures transparency and fairness in addressing allegations against judicial officers.