President John Mahama once had strong faith in Gertrude Torkornoo when she was nominated as Chief Justice, according to Edudzi Tameklo, Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority.
Tameklo said the president not only supported her nomination but also urged the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Minority in Parliament to unanimously approve it.
“President Mahama had hope in Gertrude Torkornoo when she was nominated. He told the Minority then that nobody should oppose it. So, when it came to her appointment, it was unanimous both at the committee and the plenary levels. That is the level of confidence President Mahama had in her,” Tameklo stated.
His comments come at a time when Chief Justice Torkornoo is facing a suspension following the establishment of a prima facie case against her.
The decision was taken after President Mahama, in consultation with the Council of State, received three petitions seeking her removal and subsequently set up a committee to investigate the claims.
Speaking on May 24, 2025, Tameklo clarified that the president is simply fulfilling a constitutional responsibility and that no personal vendetta is at play.
Meanwhile, Justice Torkornoo has filed a suit against the Attorney-General, Dr. Dominic Ayine, over the committee’s work.
She is asking the Supreme Court to affirm her right to a public hearing and declare that the prima facie findings against her are invalid.
The situation continues to stir legal and political conversations across the country.