Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo with immediate effect, launching a formal investigation following three separate petitions filed against her. This marks a historic moment, as it’s the first time a sitting Chief Justice in Ghana is facing disciplinary action under constitutional procedures.
The presidency, after consulting the Council of State, confirmed that a prima facie case had been established. A statement from the presidency read: “In consultation with the Council of State, it was determined that a prima facie case has been established and that Torkornoo would be suspended while she is investigated.”
Though the specific details of the petitions were not made public, officials say they include allegations of tampering with court records and misappropriation of public funds. A five-member committee, chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang and including former Auditor-General Daniel Domelevo, will conduct the inquiry.
Torkornoo, appointed in June 2023 by former President Nana Akufo-Addo, is the third woman to serve as Ghana’s Chief Justice. Earlier this year, she survived a different petition for her removal, which President Akufo-Addo dismissed due to “several deficiencies.”
President Mahama, who took office in January 2025, has pledged to strengthen trust in public institutions and fight corruption. Presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu said, “This administration will not shield any public official found culpable of wrongdoing. The rule of law must prevail.”
Justice Torkornoo has ten days to respond to the allegations. The results of the probe could significantly impact the judiciary and President Mahama’s anti-corruption drive.
