Member of Parliament for Suame Constituency in the Ashanti Region, John Darko has stated that the removal of the current Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, from office was a well thought out plan by President John Dramani Mahama.
While speaking on The Big Issue On Channel One TV, the lawmaker emphasized that the NDC while in opposition hatched a plan to remove Mrs Torkornoo when they come into office.
He remarked during the discussion that President Mahama has consistently expressed his intention to sack the Chief Justice due to some statements made while in opposition, indicating that the dismissal was not primarily a consequence of the petition submitted by Daniel Ofori.
Explaining further, he referenced comments by some big wigs in the NDC like Asiedu Nketiah against the Chief Justice as all part of a larger scheme to remove Torkornoo from her position.
“The actual event that took place with the judicial system is nothing more than a political ploy on the part of the NDC. I have to admit that they have portrayed it extremely accurately. The petition that Daniel Ofori submitted was not the spark that ignited this.
“The President’s wish to remove the Chief Justice was the impetus for this process, and he has stated this; a fact he has publicly acknowledged. From his discussion with lawyers from the NDC. Following his conclusion, every single conversation that took place after it reaffirmed his viewpoint. Asiedu Nketia, the Chairman, reiterated what was said earlier. They were making those remarks at a time when the petition had not yet been submitted; therefore, what was the foundation for those claims?” He quizzed.
The Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo was on Monday September 1,2025 dismissed from office by President Mahama based on the advice of a committee formed under Article 146(6) to consider a petition lodged by citizen Daniel Ofori.
According to the statement from the Presidential Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the President was constitutionally obligated to adhere to recommendations of the committee and could not act otherwise.
