Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu

Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu has cautioned against the government’s plans to fast-track new legislation that would regulate the removal of justices from Ghana’s superior courts, including the Chief Justice.

Speaking on TV3’s The Key Points May 31,2025, Kpebu emphasised the need for extensive stakeholder engagement and thorough consultation before such crucial rules are passed.

“I don’t know how we can pass that law in less than three months. Let’s take time on it, it will require a lot of input”, he stated.

His comments come amid ongoing proceedings involving the suspended Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Torkornoo, who is facing potential removal from office following allegations of misconduct.

Last week, the Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, announced that the government intends to introduce a comprehensive legal framework to clarify the process for removing justices of the Supreme Court and other superior courts.

The announcement was made during Parliament’s first sitting after its recess on Tuesday, May 27.

According to Ayariga, the planned legal reforms aim to strengthen judicial accountability while safeguarding the independence of the judiciary.

“The President is committed to legislative clarity with transparency when it comes to the constitutional mechanics of the removal of justices of the superior courts,” Ayariga stated.
He added that the new rules would address legal ambiguities that have led to confusion in recent high-profile judicial removal cases.

The legislative agenda, he said, includes several subsidiary laws, such as the Supreme Court Rules, Court of Appeal Rules, High Court (Civil Procedure) (Amendment) Rules, and notably, the Removal from Office of Justices of the Supreme Court Rules.

The proposed regulations also cover other areas, including the operations of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), corporate insolvency and restructuring, and terms of service for the Legal Aid Commission and Judicial Service.

Despite the government’s intent to move quickly, Kpebu insists that the legislative process must not be rushed at the expense of legal soundness and democratic integrity.

“These are delicate issues that affect our democracy and justice system. We must take the time to get it right,” he urged.

The development signals the government’s push to address perceived gaps in the legal system but also raises questions about timing and motive as the case involving the Chief Justice unfolds.

MRA/EB

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