A Policy Analyst, Mr. Andrews Joojo Maxford, has stated that the actions taken by H.E. John Dramani Mahama regarding the referral of three petitions for the removal of Her Ladyship, the Chief Justice, to the Council of State are in line with established protocol and the 1992 Constitution of the Republic.
He said, “The President acted in line with the tenets of the 1992 Constitution, fully observing its provisions while upholding the rule of law and entrenching the rules-based society we operate in and admire.”
Article 146 (6) of the Constitution states: “Where the petition is for the removal of the Chief Justice, the President shall, acting in consultation with the Council of State, appoint a committee consisting of two Justices of the Supreme Court, one of whom shall be appointed chairman by the President, and three other persons who are not members of the Council of State, nor members of Parliament, nor lawyers.”
Mr. Maxford further stated, “The provisions in Article 146 (6) of the 1992 Constitution clearly outline the role of the President in such matters. Thus, the President’s duty is to act in a manner that upholds and respects the Constitution, and that is precisely what he has done. I am also confident that the Chief Justice will be granted a fair hearing in a manner befitting her high office.”
On Tuesday, March 25, 2025, Minister of Communications and Spokesperson to the President, Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, announced the President’s decision to refer the petitions calling for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Tokornoo from office.
Following her request for copies of the petitions, the Chief Justice has been provided with them for her consideration. Additionally, instead of the seven days she requested, the President has granted her ten days to respond to the issues raised.
