After thorough deliberations, Parliament has finally approved the nomination of Justice Gertrude Torkornoo as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Ghana.
The decision was reached on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, following the unanimous endorsement of her nomination by the Appointments Committee of Parliament after her vetting on May 26, 2023.
Members from both sides of the House engaged in debates before reaching the final verdict.
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Justice Torkornoo was nominated by President Akufo-Addo in April 2023 to succeed Justice Kwasi Anin-Yeboah, who retired from the position on May 24.
During the discussions in Parliament, Haruna Iddrisu, the legislator for Tamale South, urged the Chief Justice-nominee to uphold fairness in the administration of justice.
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He emphasized the importance of carrying out her duties without bias, political influence, or fear, while remaining true to her judicial oath.
Mr. Iddrisu also highlighted Justice Araba Essaba Torkornoo’s career progression, from the High Court to the Court of Appeal, stating that her appointment as Chief Justice was a natural step. He expressed his support and well wishes for her.
The Appointments Committee unanimously recommended her acceptance, and Kwame Anyimadu Antwi, the Chairman of the Constitutional Legal & Parliamentary Affairs Committee, assured that Justice Torkornoo would uphold the principles of her mandate, as stated in the committee’s report.
However, he contested Mr. Iddrisu’s concerns regarding the outcome of the Gyakye Quayson ruling by the Supreme Court.
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