President Mahama receives first report of Article 146 Committee of Inquiry
President John Dramani Mahama has been presented with the initial findings of the Article 146 Committee of Inquiry, which is investigating petitions for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.
Report presented by Committee Chair
At a ceremony held at the Presidency on Monday morning, Justice Gabriel Pwamang, Chair of the Committee, handed over the report to President Mahama.
Justice Pwamang highlighted the fact that the committee conducted its proceedings in camera, in accordance with Article 146(7) and (8), to maintain confidentiality. He emphasized that in camera proceedings are not the same as secret, as limited procedural details could still be shared without revealing substantive matters.
Evidence heard on first petition
The Committee heard evidence from 13 witnesses called by petitioner Mr. Daniel Ofori on the first petition. Chief Justice Torkornoo, who also testified and underwent cross-examination, presented 12 witnesses, including experts. The panel reviewed approximately 10,000 pages of documentary exhibits and each side was represented by four lawyers.
Justice Pwamang stated that after careful examination and assessment of all the evidence against the Constitution and relevant laws, the committee has made a recommendation on the first petition, which was presented to the President in a sealed envelope.
Adjournment granted for second petition
Both the second petitioner and Chief Justice Torkornoo requested an adjournment for the second petition, which was granted by the committee. Justice Pwamang assured that the Committee will report on the second and third petitions in due course.
