Popular legal practitioner and member of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), Lawyer Elikplim Agbemava, in a “personal reflection” on the challenges facing embattled Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkonoo, suggested that her current predicaments stem from political pressures rather than a lack of competence.
His comments come as the suspended Chief Justice faces proceedings that could potentially lead to her removal under Article 146 of the 1992 constitution, following the submission of petitions outlining specific allegations against her.
In a social media statement, Mr. Agbemava described his perspective as a “personal reflection” rather than a formal analysis. He recalled Justice Torkonoo’s earlier reputation, stating, “Justice Torkonoo, as she was then known, was renowned for her strict management of her court and the Commercial Court division of the High Court.” He noted that this firm approach was widely respected within the legal community. “Her approach earned her the respect of practitioners, who often wished to have their cases adjudicated in her court,” he added.
The NDC stalwart also attributed the Chief Justice’s current predicament not to personal failings but to external forces. “So, what went wrong? The answer lies in politics and the pressures of governance, which can jade even the most resolute individuals,” he argued, while expressing regret over the situation, stating, “It is unfortunate that her tenure as Chief Justice has been marred by controversies that do not reflect her true character.”
While acknowledging these controversies might not be central to the formal Article 146 hearings, Mr. Agbemava positioned Justice Torkonoo’s experience as a significant lesson. He remarked that the events “serve as a valuable lesson for all,” urging participants and observers to learn from the situation.
He further highlighted a potential gap in preparedness for high-level public roles, suggesting, “There is a need for individuals in high office to receive training in political leadership as a tool for survival.”
