Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has expressed deep concerns about the choice of Adu Lodge as the venue for her ongoing impeachment trial. In a statement, Justice Torkornoo described the location as a chilling reminder of one of Ghana’s darkest moments in judicial history, citing its role in the planning of the murder of judges on June 30, 1981.
Justice Torkornoo questioned the rationale behind selecting Adu Lodge, a facility located in a high-security zone, as the site for her hearings. She drew personal connections to the events of 1981, revealing that one of the murdered judicial officers, Major Sam Acquah, was her uncle and legal guardian at the time.
The suspended Chief Justice alleged that the choice of venue, combined with the secrecy of proceedings, was intended to intimidate her and prevent citizens from knowing how the proceedings are being conducted. She warned that the irregularities and symbolism behind the trial setting could have far-reaching implications for judicial independence in Ghana.
Justice Torkornoo emphasized that she is not fighting the processes for herself, but on account of the leadership burden she carries, implying that the outcome of her trial could set a precedent for the treatment of other judges.
Adu Lodge has long been known for its controversial role in Ghana’s history, specifically its link to the abduction and assassination of three High Court judges and a retired military officer during the early years of Ghana’s Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) regime.
Sankofaonline
