Kofi Bentil, Vice President of IMANI Africa, has sounded a stark warning about the long-term implications of the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
In a Facebook post made on Tuesday, 22 April, 2025, Mr. Bentil emphasized that the decision to suspend the Chief Justice will have lasting consequences, underscoring the need for accountability and responsible governance.
“The seed sown previously is bearing fruit,” Bentil cautioned, suggesting that the current situation is a direct result of past decisions and actions. “No one should think this won’t be repeated when power shifts,” he added, highlighting the potential for future instability.
Bentil’s concerns center on the perceived politicization of constitutionally protected offices, which he believes threatens the integrity of Ghana’s institutions.
“Our leaders have succeeded in connecting constitutionally protected offices to their tenure,” he observed. “Who will fix this mess???” Bentil’s rhetorical question underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for a solution to address the underlying issues.
The suspension of Chief Justice Torkornoo follows three petitions accusing her of misconduct and constitutional breaches. President John Dramani Mahama announced the move after establishing a prima facie case. A five-member committee, led by Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, has been tasked with investigating the allegations.
The committee comprises Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu Asiedu, Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, and Professor James Sefah Dzisah.
The suspension is grounded in Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution, which requires the Chief Justice’s suspension upon the establishment of a prima facie case and the constitution of a disciplinary committee.
Stakeholders are calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations, and the situation remains fluid.