‘The public is not the president’ – Dr. Ansa-Asare slams suspended CJ
Former Director of the Ghana School of Law, Dr. Kwaku Ansa-Asare, has criticised suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo for publicly addressing the nation amid her ongoing suspension proceedings.
He reminded the public that only the President has the constitutional authority to lift her suspension.
Speaking on the Pulse Show, Dr. Ansa-Asare stated: “The public is not the President. The public cannot lift or terminate the suspension. Only the President can do so, in accordance with the constitutional procedures laid down. It is not the role of the public.”
He condemned the Chief Justice’s public statements while the legal process is still underway.
“This is yet another example of a misguided approach by a frustrated suspended Chief Justice. I urge her to channel her defence through the appropriate legal and constitutional channels. It is disappointing to see her rally public sentiment amid an ongoing constitutional process,” he said.
Dr. Ansa-Asare urged Chief Justice Torkornoo to respect the legal procedures and allow the process to proceed.
“She should wait for the process to conclude before addressing the public about the outcome. No matter how many times she appears before the public, it will not change the fact that she has been suspended,” he added.
Reaffirming his confidence in the suspension process, he said: “The suspension process is constitutional and supported by law. We must all respect the pathway outlined in Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution.”
He also advised that if the Chief Justice is dissatisfied, she should appeal to the review committee.
“The review committee exists to support and assess the process. Should there be any flaws in Article 146, amendments can be recommended. However, this is not a matter to be resolved through public protests or statements,” Dr. Ansa-Asare said.
His comments follow Chief Justice Torkornoo’s recent public address, which has sparked debate about the role of public engagement during judicial disciplinary proceedings.
Justice Gertrude Torkornoo was suspended on April 22, 2025, following three petitions alleging misconduct. President John Mahama found sufficient grounds to begin an investigation under Article 146(6) of the Constitution.
A five-member committee was appointed to investigate, but the process has been marred by controversy.
The Chief Justice has challenged the proceedings, filing an injunction at the Supreme Court to stop the committee, citing rights violations.
She maintains that Ghana should not overlook what she describes as unconstitutional actions affecting not just her, but all public officers subject to removal under Article 146.