The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has dismissed as baseless allegations that the impeachment proceedings against suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo are politically motivated.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, June 25, Kwakye Ofosu firmly asserted that the process is being conducted strictly in line with Ghana’s legal and constitutional framework.

His comments came in response to an earlier public address by the embattled Chief Justice, who raised serious concerns about the fairness and integrity of the ongoing proceedings.

“It does not matter how sensitive your position is; once Ghanaian law dictates that certain processes must be taken in respect of alleged misconduct, the rules must come into play,” he said.

“That is the only guiding principle President Mahama has operated by.

Any claim or imputation of political motive to the President in respect of these processes is unfounded, false, and cannot be allowed to stand.”

Justice Torkornoo, who was suspended on April 22 following a prima facie determination by President Mahama in consultation with the Council of State, delivered a strongly worded statement on Wednesday.

She alleged that the process violates principles of natural justice and poses a threat to judicial independence in Ghana.

Among the procedural breaches she cited were:

Denial of legal representation during initial hearings,

Lack of clarity on the specific charges against her,

Restrictions on testimony from key petitioners,

Invasive personal searches, and

Denial of access to family support during proceedings.

“These violations have not stopped,” she said. “Indeed, they have escalated beyond anything I could have imagined as possible in justice delivery.”

Justice Torkornoo warned that the ongoing inquiry risks eroding the foundations of judicial independence.

She also criticised the in-camera nature of the hearings, describing them as overly secretive and intimidating.

Her suspension triggered Article 146(10) of the 1992 Constitution, allowing for her temporary removal while the allegations are investigated.

In line with Article 146(6), a five-member committee was established to probe the petitions filed against her.

So far, Justice Torkornoo has filed four separate legal actions in an attempt to halt the proceedings, all of which have been dismissed by the Supreme Court.

Despite growing concerns from some legal professionals and civil society groups, the government maintains that the process remains impartial and lawful.

“To date, absolutely no evidence has been presented to substantiate claims of political manipulation or bias,” Kwakye Ofosu reiterated.