The Judicial Secretary of the Supreme Court, has resigned from her position. This decision comes in the wake of serious allegations against the suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, related to financial misappropriation.
The resignation was confirmed by renowned legal practitioner Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who noted that Koranteng stepped down due to the fallout from the accusations surrounding Chief Justice Torkornoo. These allegations claim that Torkornoo used state funds for a personal trip with her family, which has sparked considerable controversy.
Following Koranteng’s resignation, Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie issued a memorandum accepting her request to be relieved of her duties. He instructed Dr. Cyracus Badinye Bapuuroh to take over the responsibilities of Judicial Secretary until a new appointment is made.
The allegations against Chief Justice Torkornoo are serious. A petition presented to President John Dramani Mahama accused her of misappropriating approximately GH¢261,890 and US$30,000 intended for official travel expenses. The petition claimed that Torkornoo improperly funded a trip for her husband and daughter, which they were not entitled to under the judicial service’s policy.
In response to the allegations, Torkornoo has denied any wrongdoing. She stated that her appointment letter allows for her family to accompany her on official trips, and the travel expenses are covered by the Judicial Service. Despite her defense, she has been suspended pending further investigations.
Koranteng’s resignation marks the first time a Judicial Secretary has stepped down from this role, highlighting the gravity of the situation. The judiciary is now under scrutiny as it navigates these serious accusations and the implications for its leadership.
As this situation unfolds, the public remains watchful. The integrity of the judicial system is vital for maintaining trust in Ghana’s governance. The coming weeks will be crucial as investigations continue and the judiciary works to address the concerns raised by these allegations.
