Governance

Description Given to Adu Lodge by Chief Justice Unfair – Government’s Spokesman

Accra: Mr. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Presidential Spokesman and Minister of State in-charge of Government Communications, has expressed that the description given to Adu Lodge, a state facility, by suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo is unjust. According to Mr. Ofosu, the characterization of Adu Lodge as intimidating due to its proximity to the Osu Castle in Accra is misplaced. He emphasized that Osu Castle, a former seat of Government, is a public place where official business is regularly conducted.According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Ofosu addressed the media on Wednesday at a press conference at the Presidency in Accra, countering the views presented by the suspended Chief Justice. He highlighted that the area around Adu Lodge includes private residences owned by Ghanaians who freely move about, underscoring that its location does not inherently create an intimidating atmosphere. Mr. Ofosu further explained that Adu Lodge is a state facility used to accommodate high-ranking officials visiting Ghana, and its selection as the venue for the committee probing the Chief Justice's removal was requested by the committee itself, not dictated by the Government or President John Dramani Mahama.The Presidential Spokesman assured that Adu Lodge is equipped with modern amenities to support the committee's work, dismissing claims of it being an intimidating location. He reiterated that the proceedings adhere to Article 146(8) of the 1992 Constitution, emphasizing that the venue's location is irrelevant to the process's integrity. Security measures at Adu Lodge are aimed solely at preventing unauthorized access and ensuring the proceedings are conducted without disruption.Mr. Ofosu criticized the Chief Justice's remarks as unjustifiable, suggesting they attempt to obscure the process and unfairly attribute motives to the Government. He reaffirmed that the Government remains committed to upholding the Constitution and refraining from interfering in the merits of the case. The press conference held by the Chief Justice w as described as regrettable, with Mr. Ofosu asserting President Mahama's dedication to the rule of law.