President John Dramani Mahama has suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo following the establishment of a prima facie case in response to three separate petitions against her.
The decision, made in consultation with the Council of State, is in line with Article 146(6) and (10) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.
In a statement released Tuesday, the Presidency confirmed the formation of a five-member committee to investigate the petitions. The committee, chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, also includes:
- Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, Supreme Court Judge
- Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Former Auditor-General
- Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, Ghana Armed Forces
- Professor James Sefah Dzisah, Associate Professor, University of Ghana
The Chief Justice has been suspended with immediate effect by presidential warrant pending the outcome of the committee’s proceedings.
Background
The petitions, notably one filed by Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare in December 2024, accuse Chief Justice Torkornoo of administrative misconduct.
Allegations include unauthorized reconstitution of judicial panels, improper issuance of practice directions, and breaches of constitutional provisions regarding judicial appointments.
In March 2025, Chief Justice Torkornoo formally requested copies of the petitions from President Mahama, emphasizing the constitutional requirement for a fair hearing and the opportunity to respond to allegations before the formation of an investigative committee.
This development marks a significant moment in Ghana’s judicial history, as it is the first time a sitting Chief Justice has been suspended pending a formal investigation.
The committee’s findings will determine whether Chief Justice Torkornoo will be removed from office.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
