The Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has called on suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo to stop what he describes as a “public sympathy tour” and instead report any threats against her to the police.
Speaking in a Joy News interview on Wednesday, June 25, Mr. Asiedu Nketiah emphasized that the suspended Chief Justice must set a legal example by using the correct channels.
“She is the number one judge in the country. If she won’t follow the law, what example does that set?”
🧑⚖️ Torkornoo Refuses to Resign Amid Pressure
Earlier that same day, Justice Torkornoo held a press conference in which she declared she would not resign, despite experiencing what she described as “psychological pressure,” public hostility, and even threats to her life.
She argued that stepping down would mean validating what she called a “flawed and opaque” removal process, referencing a 2019 Supreme Court decision (Suit No. J6/02/2019) that prevents officials from walking away from formal Article 146 proceedings.
🚨 “Go to the Police, Not the Public,” Says Nketiah
Mr. Nketiah criticized her public appearances, stating:
“You don’t handle threats by shouting at press conferences. You go to the police, give your evidence, and let the authorities investigate.”
He dismissed her televised claims as emotional dramatization designed to draw public sympathy, adding that the judiciary she now critiques is the same one she previously led.
“The laws haven’t changed, the judges are the same, the process is the same. If she now finds it unjust, what does that say about her leadership?”
🏛️ Judiciary and Political Influence
Responding to accusations that the NDC is attempting to manipulate the judiciary for political gain, Mr. Nketiah maintained that constitutional procedures are being followed.
“We’re not saying the executive should reset the judiciary. The Constitution provides the mechanism for reform and accountability—we’re using those.”
He also clarified the party’s broader call to “reset state institutions”, insisting it’s a reform agenda, not a power grab.
🏰 On the Christianborg Castle Venue
Justice Torkornoo had earlier raised concerns about the hearing being held at Christianborg Castle, suggesting it was a deliberately intimidating location. But Mr. Nketiah dismissed this as symbolic posturing.
“The building can’t intimidate you. That’s just emotional theatre.”
⚖️ Final Word: No One is Above the Law
Mr. Nketiah concluded with a pointed reminder that no public official, regardless of position, is exempt from legal scrutiny.
“If you believe you’ve been threatened, report it. Don’t just make claims—present your evidence. Let the system work.”
As the Article 146 removal proceedings continue, the national conversation grows sharper—raising questions not only about judicial accountability but also about the balance between public transparency and institutional integrity.
Source: https://www.graphic.com.gh
