PNP petitions Otumfuo over suspension of Chief Justice Torkornoo
The People’s National Party (PNP) has petitioned the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to intervene in what it describes as the unlawful suspension and ongoing human rights abuses against Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Torkornoo.
In a strongly worded petition dated 1 July 2025 and signed by the party’s chairperson and leader, Janet Asana Nabla, the PNP called on the revered traditional leader to use his moral authority to protect the independence of the judiciary and the rights of women in public service.
The petition alleges that the chief justice’s suspension was politically motivated, describing it as part of President John Dramani Mahama’s agenda to “equalise” the judiciary. According to the PNP, despite a lack of credible evidence, Justice Torkornoo was targeted and suspended, with her investigation allegedly chaired by a known rival.
The petition further outlines a series of humiliations faced by the Chief Justice since her suspension. These include being subjected to searches before appearing before the investigative committee, being denied family support during proceedings, and being forced to attend hearings at a venue tied to painful family memories. It also criticises the judiciary for dismissing her legal applications concerning the alleged abuse and violations.
“Today, our democracy is being used to target, not protect, the innocent,” the petition states. “If Chief Justice Torkornoo—one of the brightest examples of what Ghanaian women can achieve—is allowed to be broken like this, what hope do we give to the next generation of girls?”
The PNP is calling on Otumfuo to summon President Mahama and demand an immediate reversal of the suspension, convene an independent inquiry, and publicly defend the dignity of women in leadership.
The party argues that traditional leaders have long been the moral compass of the nation and insists their intervention is crucial to preserving Ghana’s democratic values and inspiring future generations.
The presidency and the Office of the Chief Justice have not yet responded publicly to the petition.
