By Ashiadey Dotse
Vice-President of IMANI Africa, Kofi Bentil, has dismissed claims that the dismissal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo was a witch-hunt, stressing that the constitutional process was strictly followed.
Speaking on TV3’s Keypoints show on Saturday, 6 September 2025, Mr Bentil explained that although the decision has raised concerns, it cannot be described as unlawful or arbitrary.
“This is not a mere witch-hunt. Constitutional processes were followed, and there was no breach of the letter of the constitution,” he said.
The governance expert, however, expressed concern about the broader implications of the removal. He warned that if such decisions are influenced by premeditated political positions, Ghana risks weakening its democratic institutions.
According to him, the judiciary remains a critical arm of government with the power to check the executive and legislature. He cautioned that frequent interference in the judiciary, especially at the highest level, could set a dangerous precedent.
“Removing a Chief Justice should not be done lightly. If this continues, every new president could walk in, clear the Chief Justice and security heads, and replace them with their own people. That is not what the constitution is meant for,” Mr Bentil cautioned.
He also noted that while audit concerns and administrative issues were cited in the removal process, they did not amount to grave misconduct deserving of the Chief Justice’s dismissal.
Mr Bentil urged sober reflection, adding that preserving Ghana’s democracy requires careful protection of its institutions, particularly the judiciary.
His comments follow President John Mahama’s decision to remove the Chief Justice based on allegations of misconduct cited in the recommendation report submitted by the Article 146 committee, which investigated petitions filed against her.
