President Mahama suspends Chief Justice Torkornoo over petitions for removal
The decision, announced on Tuesday, was made in accordance with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution, and in consultation with the Council of State.
President John Dramani Mahama has suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, following the establishment of a prima facie case in response to three separate petitions calling for her removal from office.
The decision, announced on Tuesday, was made in accordance with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution, and in consultation with the Council of State.
This marks a significant development in Ghana’s judicial landscape, as the nation’s top judicial officer now faces a formal inquiry into her conduct.
Although the specific allegations contained in the petitions have not been disclosed to the public, the case has sparked intense discussion across legal and political spheres. Many see it as a critical test of judicial accountability and the mechanisms in place to ensure integrity at the highest levels of the judiciary.
Per constitutional provisions, Chief Justice Torkornoo was served with copies of the petitions and granted 10 days to respond. She submitted her written response on April 7, 2025.
After reviewing her response and engaging in further consultations, President Mahama concluded that there was enough merit in the petitions to warrant a formal investigation. As a result, a five-member committee has been constituted under Article 146(6) to probe the allegations.
This unfolding situation places the spotlight on Ghana’s judicial processes and the constitutional checks designed to uphold the rule of law. It remains to be seen what findings the committee will arrive at and what impact the inquiry will have on public trust in the judiciary.
Chief Justice Torkornoo, who was appointed in 2023, has not yet publicly commented on her suspension.
Mike 105.3 FM | Navrongo | Castro Senyalah
