Political Scientist at the University of Ghana, Dr. Joshua Zaato has praised the suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, for what he describes as a virtuous and courageous fight against her impeachment process.
Speaking on TV3’s KeyPoints, Dr. Zaato said that while he personally believes the Chief Justice will not return to office, he commends her resolve in challenging the process through both legal means and public engagement.
“I’m proud of her fight. She’s not just sitting back. She’s gone to the Supreme Court, she’s spoken to the public, and she’s inviting all of us into this very sensitive moment. That takes courage,” he said on July 5.
Dr. Zaato likened her fight to the legacy of historical figures like Yaa Asantewaa, who, even in the face of likely defeat, stood up for justice and dignity.
“Even if she loses, she’s going down with her pride intact,” he added.
He emphasized that her actions set a strong precedent for accountability, public engagement, and institutional transparency even at the highest levels of power.
Speaking on the same programme, lawyer Godwin Edudzi Tameklo said the Ghana Bar Association’s claim that the impeachment process against Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo sets a bad precedent is both historically and legally flawed.
He challenged the GBA’s President to define what exactly makes this precedent “bad,” especially when similar processes were used to remove former public officials under past administrations, including EC chairperson Charlotte Osei and CHRAJ commissioner Loretta Lamptey.
“The law hasn’t changed. Article 146 is the same. So why is it now a problem when applied to the current Chief Justice?” he asked.
Tameklo reminded the public that the GBA was silent during the removals under President Akufo-Addo and active in court against President Mahama’s appointments, adding: “If your concern is about the rule of law, then your consistency must show.”
He further explained that the constitution provides for in-camera hearings and suspensions to protect the integrity of such high-profile processes.
He justified the use of Adu Lodge as the hearing venue, stating it provides a neutral, quiet space for the Chief Justice to appear without media frenzy.
“Let’s not pretend this is new or unconstitutional. The 1992 Constitution is clear, and President Mahama is simply following it. No president enjoys supervising an impeachment, but it is a duty under the law,” he concluded.
