Accra: Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has confirmed reports that she opposed the removal of Justice Gertrude Torkornoo from the position she once held. Speaking in a review interview on TV3, the former Chief Justice asserted that there were insufficient grounds for the removal of Justice Torkornoo. She indicated that the removal of her former colleague, the Chief Justice, was 'shallow' and unjustified.
According to Ghana Web, Justice Akuffo critiqued the grounds for the removal, describing them as 'shallow' and 'ephemeral'. She argued that the threshold for removal was low and maintained confidentiality regarding the proceedings. Justice Akuffo opposed the removal following the determination of a prima facie case against Torkornoo by the Council of State. She filed a dissenting view on this determination before her resignation.
Justice Akuffo further explained that she submitted a dissenting opinion on the matter, emphasizing the ethical limitations on her disclosure. She expressed hope that the records of the Council of State will eventually be made public, revealing her dissenting opinion. She also criticized the Council of State's role in determining a prima facie case, highlighting the technical complexities involved.
The former Chief Justice expressed her hope that no future Chief Justice would endure a similar experience, criticizing the process involved in the removal.