Calls Mount to Relocate Torkornoo Probe From ‘Haunting’ Venue as Chief Justice Decries Justice Breaches

Calls are intensifying for the relocation of the ongoing impeachment hearings involving suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, as respected legal luminary Kwaku Ansa-Asare recommends a change in venue due to its traumatic history and perceived intimidation.

Speaking on TV3’s “The Key Points”, the former Director of the Ghana School of Law advised that the Adu Lodge facility, currently being used for the probe, be reconsidered following revelations from the Chief Justice about its emotional toll.

“Given her personal connection to the site’s dark past, we may need to relocate the hearing to a more neutral venue,” Ansa-Asare said.

■ Site of Historical Tragedy Reopens Old Wounds

During a recent press conference, Justice Torkornoo disclosed that the Adu Lodge, where the proceedings are underway, was linked to the 1981 abduction and murder of three High Court judges and a military officer, including Major Sam Acquah, her uncle and guardian at the time.

“Was Adu Lodge chosen to make me feel unsafe? I believe so,” she questioned. “The place is a symbol of a horrific chapter in our legal history.”

She further condemned the secrecy and high-security nature of the venue, describing it as inconsistent with transparency and judicial tradition.

■ Chief Justice Slams Procedural Violations

Torkornoo also used the press conference to deliver a searing critique of the committee handling her removal, accusing it of flouting basic legal standards and natural justice principles.

She cited a litany of grievances, including:

● Not receiving an official copy of the petition—except the one sent by the President

● Committee’s refusal to recognise her legal counsel during early hearings

● Lack of clarity on specific allegations and the reasoning behind the prima facie case

● Witnesses shielded from cross-examination

● Denial of spousal or family presence during hearings

● Personal body searches she called excessive and disrespectful

● Deviation from traditional venue norms for Article 146 proceedings

“Every aspect of this process has violated the rules that uphold justice,” she declared. “These actions seem calculated to intimidate rather than ensure fairness.”

■ Presidential Action and Committee Composition

On April 22, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama, acting under Article 146(6) of the Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State, determined that a prima facie case had been established based on three separate petitions.

As a result, Torkornoo was suspended and a five-member committee of inquiry was formed to investigate the claims. The committee includes:

● Justice Gabriel Pwamang (Chairman)

● Justice Samuel Adibu-Asiedu

● Daniel Domelevo (Former Auditor-General)

● Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo

● Prof. James Sefah Dzisah

The committee is now at the centre of growing controversy over its transparency, legal propriety, and venue selection.