The Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo was removed from office by President John Dramani Mahama on September 1, 2025, following a recommendation by a five-member investigative committee established under Article 146(6) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution. The committee found grounds for “stated misbehavior” in the petitions against her, which included allegations of:
Abuse of Office by alleged arrest of ACP Ayamga Yakubu Akolgo during court proceedings.
Fabrication of Court Records by cover-up of the arrest
Improper Judicial Appointment Procedures through politically sensitive venue choices for hearings
Three separate petitions were filed against Chief Justice Torkornoo earlier in 2025, accusing her of misconduct.
She was suspended on April 22, 2025, after President Mahama determined a prima facie case had been established.
A five-member committee, chaired by Justice Gabriel Pwamang, investigated the allegations and recommended her removal.
President Mahama acted on the committee’s recommendation, citing constitutional requirements.
The removal marks a historic precedent in Ghana’s judicial governance, demonstrating the country’s commitment to constitutional accountability.
The President is expected to appoint a new Chief Justice, subject to parliamentary approval.
Source: myjoyonline.com