Youth advocate and entrepreneur, Akosua Asaa Manu, widely known as Kozie, has issued a fervent appeal to Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, urging her intervention in what she describes as the “unjust treatment and public humiliation” of the suspended Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
In an emotional open letter, Kozie voiced profound concern over the processes that culminated in Chief Justice Torkornoo’s suspension by President John Dramani Mahama. She characterized the unfolding events as ‘a deliberate and concerted effort to not only remove Madam Torkornoo but also subject her to the highest possible form of public ridicule.’ Kozie warned, “What began as scrutiny has swiftly transformed into a siege, and our democracy suffers alongside its distinguished daughter.”
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The open letter, aptly titled “When Scrutiny Turns Into Siege,” sought to invoke the Vice President’s illustrious legacy as a trailblazer in Ghana’s academic and political landscape. Kozie implored Professor Opoku-Agyemang to leverage her considerable moral authority to defend the dignity of both the Chief Justice and the integrity of the judicial institution.
“You are the icon who ascended to Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast… In unlocking this door, you reminded us with those poignant words: ‘What really matters is not first to come through the door, what matters is holding the door open for those behind to enter,’” Kozie stated, drawing a parallel to the Vice President’s pioneering journey.
She also drew attention to Ghana’s rich history of female leadership within the judiciary, citing former Chief Justices Georgina Wood and Sophia Akuffo as integral parts of a legacy now perceived to be under severe threat. “Why then is Justice Torkornoo not merely being pushed out, but also being bruised and embarrassed on her way out?” the letter queried, highlighting the perceived indignity.
Concerns were also raised regarding the methods employed by state investigative agencies, with Akosua Manu alleging that the Chief Justice has endured “random searches, the seizure of mobile devices, home invasions, and synchronized media trials.” She contended that such actions are glaringly inconsistent with the ideals of fairness and respect due to constitutional officeholders.
Akosua Manu, who contested the 2024 Parliamentary elections in Adentan on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), was quick to clarify that her appeal was not an attempt to shield any official from legitimate accountability. Rather, her objective was to safeguard the dignity and sanctity of Ghana’s vital institutions. “Justice must not be sacrificed on the altar of vendetta. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done,” she cautioned.
The youth advocate also referenced a recent statement by the Majority Leader in Parliament, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, indicating the government’s intention to introduce legislation outlining clear procedures for the removal of a Chief Justice. Manu interpreted this as “an admission that the present process is flawed.”
Kozie made an impassioned plea by calling upon the Vice President to defend institutional integrity and Ghana’s fundamental promise of justice, posing a direct challenge: “Will you rise not just as Vice President but as a woman who knows what it means to lead against the odds?”