The ECOWAS Community Court of Justice has thrown out all seven claims filed by former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo against the Republic of Ghana, the Deputy Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Justice Srem-Sai, has announced.
The regional court also rejected the former Chief Justice’s demand for US$10 million in damages, ruling that Ghana did not violate any of her rights under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
Justice Torkornoo had dragged the Ghanaian government before the ECOWAS Court following her suspension and subsequent removal from office, arguing that the processes breached her fundamental human rights. The court had earlier addressed preliminary objections and procedural matters in the case.
Announcing the verdict on Facebook Wednesday, Dr Srem-Sai said the court, having found no rights violations, made no orders on reparations.
“In light of the Court’s conclusions that Ghana has not violated any of the Applicant’s rights under the African Charter as alleged, the Court makes no decision on reparations,” he quoted the judgment as saying.
The ruling brings to a definitive end the legal action pursued by Justice Torkornoo at the regional court.
Reacting to the outcome, the Deputy Attorney-General commended the legal team that represented the Republic of Ghana, especially the state attorneys who handled the case.
He praised their “extensive research and preparation,” which he said played a key role in the successful defence of Ghana’s position before the ECOWAS Court.