Frank Davies Urges Government to Uphold Due Process in Chief Justice's Removal

Frank Davies, Chairman of the Constitutional and Legal Committee of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has voiced serious concerns regarding the recent suspension of Ghana’s Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, by President John Dramani Mahama. He warned that the manner in which the issue is being handled, particularly in the public space, threatens the fundamental principle of judicial independence.

In an interview on Eyewitness News with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Thursday, April 1, Davies emphasized the importance of respecting the constitutional procedures governing the removal of high-ranking judicial officials. He expressed unease over how the matter has been widely discussed and politicized, even before the legally mandated process has been allowed to run its course.

According to Davies, the suspension of the Chief Justice appears to be playing out more in the media and political commentary than in accordance with established legal channels. “It is worrying that the removal of the Chief Justice is now being determined by public opinion. Key figures within government circles are making definitive statements about her removal as though the outcome is already certain,” he said.

Davies reiterated that while no public official is beyond accountability, actions involving sensitive institutions such as the judiciary must be guided strictly by law and procedure. “Every executive officer, including the Chief Justice, can be investigated if there’s cause. But it must be done through a lawful and regular process. Skipping those steps undermines trust in our institutions,” he added.

He questioned why some political actors have chosen to publicly pre-empt the process, warning that such actions could erode the credibility of the judiciary and shake public confidence in the rule of law. “Why are people rushing to make conclusions in public before the facts are known? Is this the kind of conduct that supports the independence of the judiciary?” he asked rhetorically.

The controversy began when President Mahama suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo on Tuesday, April 22. The decision followed the submission of three separate petitions by private citizen Daniel Ofori, senior police officer Ayamga Akolgo, and the civic organization Shining Stars of Ghana. After reviewing the petitions, the President declared that a prima facie case had been established and, as mandated by the Constitution, appointed a five-member committee to investigate the allegations.

Although the nature of the allegations has not been officially disclosed, the move has drawn both support and criticism from various quarters. Supporters of the suspension believe it demonstrates the government’s commitment to accountability, while critics argue it may be politically motivated and risks setting a dangerous precedent for interference in judicial matters.

Frank Davies belongs to the latter camp, emphasizing that the focus should be on ensuring a fair, independent, and constitutionally sound process. “We must not lose sight of the larger picture,” he noted. “This is about more than just one individual. It’s about safeguarding the integrity of our judiciary and the rule of law in Ghana.”

He also appealed to the public, political commentators, and media houses to allow the committee to carry out its work without unnecessary interference. “Let the committee do its job. Let due process prevail. That is how we protect democracy,” he stressed.

As the committee begins its investigations, the nation watches closely. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications not only for the current leadership of the judiciary but also for how future allegations against high-ranking judicial officials are handled.

Frank Davies’ call serves as a reminder that in democratic governance, procedure is as important as justice itself. The rule of law must be respected, and the independence of the judiciary preserved—no matter how politically charged the circumstances may be.