By: Franklin ASARE-DONKOH
The Minority Caucus in Ghana’s Parliament has hinted that Supreme Court Judge Justice Gertrude Araba Torkonoo will be approved by consensus as the new Chief Justice, contrary to some speculations that it will kick against her approval.
The Minority during the Chief Justice nominee’s vetting pushed for the reason assigned for the judgment which annulled the election of Mr. James Gyakye Quayson as Assin North Member of Parliament (MP), before it could pass a vote on Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, who was part of the 7-member panel that decided the case, as mentioned earlier.
But the Supreme Court on Monday, June 5, 2023, made available its 35-page judgment on Mr. James Gyakye Quayson.
Speaking on behalf of the Minority during a press conference held on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, in Parliament, the MP for Bawku Central, Mr. Mahama Ayariga, explained that despite their disagreement with Justice Torkornoo, they believe she has the qualifications necessary to serve as Chief Justice.
“Her impressive curriculum vitae highlights her extensive experience, having served as a judge from the High Court to the Court of Appeal and eventually at the Supreme Court. We firmly believe that capable women should be afforded opportunities to hold key national positions.
Despite our disagreement with her jurisprudence, we recognise her qualifications for the esteemed position of Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana,” the Bawku Central MP noted.
The NDC is hopeful that Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, as a female Chief Justice, will restore the dignity and credibility of the judicial system, which it says is not in good shape.
