Government has firmly rejected what it describes as “unfortunate and misleading” attempts by suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo to draw parallels between the 1982 abduction and murder of three High Court judges and her current constitutional suspension from office.
Addressing journalists at a press briefing at the Jubilee House, the President’s Spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, said the Government was deeply concerned by remarks made by Justice Torkornoo, suggesting a resemblance between the historic judicial tragedy and the legitimate constitutional processes she is currently subject to.
“It is regrettable that Justice Torkornoo, who has herself been a beneficiary and custodian of our constitutional democracy, would liken her ongoing suspension to the brutal killings of judges in 1982—a shameful and criminal episode in our history,” Mr. Kwakye Ofosu stated.
He described the comparison as an “alarming distortion of Ghana’s judicial history” and cautioned that such rhetoric could inflame public sentiment and erode trust in lawful institutions.
Commitment to Rule of Law
Mr. Kwakye Ofosu emphasised that Justice Torkornoo’s suspension followed strict constitutional procedure, including a petition from concerned citizens, a recommendation by the Judicial Council, and the President’s referral to a committee of inquiry.
“This is not an attack on the judiciary, nor is it persecution,” he said. “It is a constitutional safeguard to ensure accountability and public confidence in the justice system.”
He urged all Ghanaians to reject what he called “emotional manipulation and historical revisionism” and instead uphold the integrity of Ghana’s democratic processes.
Preserving National Memory and Judicial Integrity
The Government further warned that invoking the tragic memory of murdered judges for personal defence was not only inappropriate but disrespectful to their memory.
“Their sacrifice must be remembered with solemnity and not used as a shield in the face of constitutional accountability,” Mr. Kwakye Ofosu added.
The suspended Chief Justice, who is facing allegations related to judicial financial administration, remains under investigation by a constitutionally mandated committee. She maintains her right to a fair hearing and legal representation.
Mr. Kwakye Ofosu concluded by assuring the public that Government remains committed to the independence of the judiciary and the sanctity of Ghana’s Constitution.
