Government spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu has described as “most regrettable” the public remarks made by suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Sackey Torkornoo.
In her address, the Chief Justice raised concerns over the constitutional and procedural legitimacy of the ongoing process to remove her from office.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, June 25, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu reaffirmed President John Mahama’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and the integrity of Ghana’s constitutional framework, regardless of the office or stature of the individual involved.
“What has happened today is most regrettable, and as government—or as the President—President Mahama is committed to upholding the rule of law,” he stated.
His comments follow an address by the suspended Chief Justice, in which she alleged that the disciplinary proceedings initiated against her were marred by irregularities, breaches of due process, and political manoeuvring aimed at orchestrating her removal.
However, the Government Communications Minister defended the process so far, noting that all actions taken have been firmly rooted in the constitutional provisions governing such matters.
“We cannot have the situation where, depending on who is involved, the Constitution is set aside,” Mr. Kwakye Ofosu said.
He emphasised that the constitutional procedures governing the conduct and discipline of judicial officers are being fully adhered to in the ongoing matter involving the suspended Chief Justice.
“All Ghanaians are equal before the law. In the same way that our courts have dealt with individuals in accordance with the law, if members of the judiciary themselves are alleged to be engaged in some wrongdoing, the processes laid down—or spelt out—by the Constitution ought to be respected. And that is exactly what has happened,” he reiterated.
Chief Justice Torkornoo was suspended from office earlier this year following the submission of multiple petitions alleging misconduct and abuse of judicial authority.
President Mahama, in accordance with Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution, referred the petitions to the Council of State. A five-member committee, chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang, was subsequently established to investigate the claims.
In her public address—the first since her suspension—Justice Torkornoo accused the committee of procedural injustice, including denial of access to legal representation, failure to specify charges, and a lack of transparency in the handling of the proceedings.
She also questioned the impartiality of the committee, citing a conflict of interest involving Justice Pwamang, who had previously sat on a panel with her in a case referenced in one of the petitions.
Mr. Kwakye Ofosu insisted that it was critical for the rule of law to prevail. He emphasised that the Constitution does not provide for selective application based on rank, reputation, or popularity.
“The public cannot lift the suspension. The public cannot terminate the process. Only the President can act on the findings of the investigative committee in accordance with the Constitution,” he stated.
The Minister urged all parties to exercise restraint and allow the constitutional mechanisms to proceed without interference or politicisation.