Accra, Ghana – April 19, 2025:
Johnson Asiedu Nketia, National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has cast doubt on the authenticity of a widely discussed petition allegedly calling for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo.
In recent days, several reports and media commentaries have suggested that portions of three separate petitions submitted to President John Dramani Mahama for the Chief Justice’s dismissal have been leaked to the public. However, Mr. Asiedu Nketia, speaking in an interview with Radio Gold, said he believes the so-called leaked documents may not be legitimate.
“I am not convinced that any actual petition has been leaked. What proves that what is circulating isn’t fabricated? Unless the content is officially released and compared with what’s in circulation, there’s no way to determine its authenticity,” he said.
Legal and Media Reactions
John Darko, Member of Parliament for Suame and Legal Counsel for the Minority Caucus in Parliament, previously addressed the press regarding the issue. He dismissed the allegations against the Chief Justice—such as claims of influencing judicial appointments and presiding over controversial rulings—as baseless and politically charged.
“The grounds cited are weak and appear to be politically motivated,” Darko noted. “This petition undermines our democratic institutions and processes.”
The matter has also sparked discussions in the media. Personalities like Paul Adom Otchere and Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah have weighed in on the issue through their platforms, analyzing what they claim to be contents of the petition.
Cautionary Reference: Kwesi Botchwey Committee
Referencing a past experience, Mr. Asiedu Nketia recalled how false information was once circulated about a confidential report following the NDC’s defeat in the 2016 elections.
“We printed only three final copies of the Kwesi Botchwey report, and I personally kept one. Still, media houses like Daily Guide and Searchlight claimed they had the report and serialized misleading content. What they published wasn’t the actual report,” he explained.
He added that such leaks often aim to provoke public reactions that might unintentionally validate falsehoods.
Call for Restraint
Mr. Nketia urged the public and media to approach the alleged petition with skepticism unless there’s an official release.
“Jumping to conclusions over unverified information risks distorting facts and damaging public trust in our institutions. Let’s remain cautious,” he advised.
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