Martin Kpebu demands urgent reforms to strike out Article 144

Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has renewed calls for sweeping constitutional reforms to strengthen judicial independence in Ghana, in the wake of the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.

Speaking on The Point of View on Channel One TV on Monday, September 1, Kpebu questioned the constitutional framework that allows the executive branch to dominate the appointment of Chief Justices.

Concerns Over Article 144

At the centre of his critique is Article 144 of the 1992 Constitution, which empowers the President to appoint the Chief Justice.

He argued that as long as the executive retains control over judicial appointments, the impartiality of the courts will remain under constant threat from political influence.

Beyond appointments, Kpebu also stressed the need for a clearer categorisation of judicial misconduct to guide disciplinary procedures.

According to him, the absence of such categorisation creates the danger that minor infractions may be treated on par with serious breaches, potentially leading to disproportionate punishments, including removal from office.

Kpebu’s comments add momentum to the growing debate over constitutional review, particularly regarding the separation of powers and the independence of Ghana’s key institutions.

The controversy surrounding Justice Torkornoo’s removal, he said, underscores the urgency of revisiting the appointment and accountability mechanisms within the judiciary to preserve its credibility and integrity.