Torkornoo's Exit: Here's What We Know and What We Don't

Accra, Ghana, September 1,2025 - The removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has sent shockwaves through Ghana's judicial system, sparking heated debates about the role of the executive in the judiciary. Here's what we know and what we don't:

The Circumstances Surrounding the Removal

Chief Justice Torkornoo was suspended by President John Dramani Mahama after a prima facie case was established in consultation with the Council of State, based on petitions brought against her. The petitions accused her of misconduct and incompetence, citing issues like alleged panel reconstitution and constitutional breaches.

The Petition's Merit

Former President Akufo-Addo dismissed a similar petition, stating it lacked merit and didn't disclose a prima facie case warranting further investigation. Retired Supreme Court Judge Justice William Atuguba questioned the basis for this decision, suggesting it may have been politically motivated.

Reactions from Stakeholders

- Minority Leader Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin: Warned Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie and Acting Judicial Secretary Dr. Cyracus Badinye Bapuuroh against complacency, emphasizing that the suspension of Chief Justice Torkornoo is a threat to judicial independence and democratic stability.

- Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG): Joined forces with four other parties to protest the removal, describing it as unconstitutional and a calculated attempt to undermine judicial independence. LPG's General Secretary, Jerry Owusu Appauh, stated, "We won't let a mere 6 million-elected government destroy Ghana's democracy".

- New Patriotic Party (NPP): Figures like Ambrose Dery and, former Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame have been involved in the controversy with Dame responding to criticisms from private legal practitioner Thaddeus Sory.

What We Don't Know

- Full grounds for removal: The specific reasons behind President Mahama's decision to suspend Chief Justice Torkornoo are not entirely clear, sparking speculation about potential political motivations.

- Impact on judiciary: The long-term effects of this removal on Ghana's judicial system and democracy remain uncertain, with potential implications for the rule of law and judicial independence.

As the situation unfolds, one thing is certain: the removal of Chief Justice Torkornoo has ignited a fierce debate about the role of the executive in the judiciary, and its implications for Ghana's democracy.

Source – Lead News Online/Leticia Okpoti