Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has emphasized the importance of holding judges accountable for contempt when they make comments on cases in court.
During her speech at the 7th Annual Legal Ethics Training Programme organized by GIMPA Law Faculty, she highlighted that judges should exercise discretion and refrain from discussing ongoing cases publicly.
The Chief Justice made a comparison between the treatment of ordinary people and judges in such situations, asserting that if the court can penalize ordinary people for contempt when discussing a case publicly, then judges should be subjected to the same treatment, with the process expedited further.
She cited the Code of Conduct on Propriety, which dictates that judges must refrain from making any public statement that could potentially influence the outcome or compromise the fairness of a case pending in any court.
Additionally, she advised judges should avoid making public statements that might significantly disrupt the fairness of a trial. By adhering to these guidelines, judges can uphold the integrity of the judicial process and ensure that the administration of justice remains impartial and free from external influences.
Her comment comes after Dormaahene who doubles as High Court Judge called on President Nana Akufo-Addo to ask the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Dame Yeboah, to enter a Nolle Prosique on the matter of Assin North MP, James Gyakye Quayson.
His comment raised public sentiments amidst backlash and calls for his sack that though the Constitution frowns on chiefs engaging in partisan politics, the Dormaahene does engage in active politics.
As a High Court judge, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II has breached the entire Constitution by being a member of the National Democratic Congress.