The End of an Era: Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo Fired Amid Controversy
Accra, Ghana, September 1,2025 - In a significant constitutional development , President John Dramani Mahama has removed Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo from office with immediate effect.
The removal follows the submission of a report by a committee established under Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution to investigate petitions seeking the Chief Justice's removal.
Background of the Petitions
The petitions, submitted by a Ghanaian citizen, Mr. Daniel Ofori, alleged misconduct and led to the establishment of a five-member committee chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang. The committee investigated the claims and found grounds of stated misbehavior under Article 146(1) of the Constitution, recommending the Chief Justice's removal.
Constitutional Process and Implications
- Constitutional Basis: President Mahama acted in accordance with Article 146(9) of the Constitution, which requires the President to follow the committee's recommendation.
- Implications for the Judiciary: The removal of a Chief Justice is a rare and serious constitutional step, underscoring the balance between safeguarding judicial independence and upholding accountability.
- Next Steps: The President is expected to nominate a new Chief Justice, subject to parliamentary approval. In the interim, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, the most senior Supreme Court judge, will act as Chief Justice.
Reactions and Controversy
Chief Justice Torkornoo had publicly defended herself, characterizing the proceedings as "arbitrary," "cruel," and unconstitutional. The Ghana Bar Association and other groups expressed concerns about the process, citing potential impacts on judicial independence.
This development marks a pivotal moment in Ghana's judicial history, with potential far-reaching implications for the country's judiciary and constitutional governance.
Source – Lead News Online/Leticia Okpoti
