Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has formally requested copies of the petitions submitted to President John Dramani Mahama that seek her removal from office.

In a letter addressed to the President on Thursday, March 27, she sought access to the documents to allow her to respond appropriately.

Her request comes after President Mahama began consultations with the Council of State following the receipt of three petitions calling for her removal.

The Chief Justice’s appeal coincides with a lawsuit filed at the Supreme Court by Vincent Assafuah, the New Patriotic Party MP for Old Tafo. The suit challenges the process being followed in handling the petitions.

The plaintiff, represented by former Attorney-General Godfred Dame, argues that the Chief Justice must be notified of the petitions and given an opportunity to respond before the President consults the Council of State.

Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, confirmed that the petitions have been forwarded to the Council of State in line with Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution.

Although the exact details of the petitions have not been disclosed, the process marks the initial stage of a constitutional procedure that could have significant implications for Ghana’s judiciary.

The Council of State is expected to assess the petitions and provide guidance to the President on the appropriate steps to take.

In her letter, Chief Justice Torkornoo emphasized the importance of being given a fair chance to respond before any further action is taken.

“I am by this letter humbly and respectfully asking His Excellency the President and eminent members of the Council of State to forward the petitions against me to me, and allow me at least seven days after receipt of same, to provide my response to you, which response can then form part of the material that you conduct the consultations anticipated under 146 (6), before the possible setting up of a Committee of Inquiry under Article 146 (7),” she stated.