Former Council of State member, Dr. Nii Kotei Dzani, has clarified that President John Dramani Mahama plays no direct role in the removal of the Chief Justice, emphasizing that the process is strictly guided by constitutional procedures.
Dr. Dzani’s statement comes in response to recent petitions forwarded by the President to the Council of State, seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo. His remarks aim to address growing concerns and political commentary surrounding the issue.
Speaking on an Accra-based radio station on Wednesday, Dr. Dzani stressed that the President’s involvement is limited to relaying the petition to the Council of State, with no influence over the final outcome.
“This is not the first time that the Council is receiving a petition to look into the removal of the Chief Justice. At every Council of State, we receive about two or three such petitions. But let me make it clear that the President has no technical role in removing the Chief Justice,” Dr. Dzani stated.
He explained that the Council of State's decision-making process is independent and depends on the timing of the petition's receipt.
“At the receipt of the petition from the President by the Council of State, it depends on when the petition is received. If the Council is in session, the chairman will present it for consideration. If the Council is not in session, the chairman may call for an emergency meeting because there is a limited time within which the petition can be reviewed,” he explained.
Dr. Dzani further stated that the Council of State may form a special committee to examine the petition. If the committee establishes a case against the Chief Justice, the Council of State will communicate its findings to the President for further action.
Meanwhile, critics, including Manhyia South Member of Parliament (MP), Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, have cautioned against removing the Chief Justice without substantial grounds, warning of the potential long-term implications on Ghana’s judiciary and governance.
Dr. Dzani’s comments seek to assure the public that the process remains constitutionally sound and free from presidential interference.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
Comments