Professor Baffour Agyemang-Duah, a governance analyst, has raised concerns over the political ramifications of the petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo.

He cautioned that if the process is not handled with transparency, it could be perceived as a politically motivated action, potentially undermining public trust in Ghana’s democratic institutions.

His comments follow petitions submitted to President John Mahama, calling for the removal of the Chief Justice.

Speaking in an interview with Citi FM on Friday, 28th March, Professor Agyemang-Duah warned that the situation could escalate into a political controversy if due process is not strictly followed.

He highlighted the risk of a recurring pattern where newly elected governments are seen to be targeting key figures in independent state institutions.

“Because some NDC members, though not officially, have expressed dissatisfaction with the Chief Justice’s actions during the campaign, this could easily be viewed as a political witch hunt,” he noted.

Drawing a parallel, he added, “Former President Akufo-Addo did something similar with the removal of the previous Electoral Commission chairperson. If this becomes a norm, it sets a dangerous precedent where every new government feels the need to replace key figures in constitutional bodies.”

Professor Agyemang-Duah further stressed the long-term risks of such a trend, warning that it could erode institutional stability and public confidence.

“If every newly elected government seeks to remove certain individuals from independent bodies, it will create instability and mistrust in these institutions,” he cautioned.

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Meanwhile, President Mahama has formally responded to Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo’s request for copies of the petitions.

He has granted her 10 days to review and respond to the allegations, marking the next step in the constitutional process governing her potential removal.