President Mahama Suspends Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo

President John Dramani Mahama, in accordance with Article 146(6) of the Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State, has determined that a prima facie case has been established in respect of three petitions filed against the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.

A statement issued on Tuesday, April 22, announced the development, stating: “Pursuant to Article 146(10) of the Constitution and in accordance with the advice of the Council of State, the President has, by a warrant, suspended the Chief Justice with immediate effect pending the outcome of the committee’s proceedings.”

The suspension takes immediate effect and will remain in force while a specially constituted committee investigates the allegations outlined in the petitions. This move underscores the application of constitutional checks and balances, ensuring accountability within the highest ranks of Ghana’s judiciary.

he statement, signed by the Minister in Charge of Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, further revealed that a committee has been established in accordance with Article 146(6) of the Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State to investigate the petitions brought against the Chief Justice.

The five-member committee is composed of the following individuals:

Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, Justice of the Supreme Court – Chairman
Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, Justice of the Supreme Court – Member
Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Former Auditor-General – Member
Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, Ghana Armed Forces – Member
Professor James Sefah Dzisah, Associate Professor, University of Ghana – Member

The committee has been tasked with conducting a thorough inquiry into the petitions referred to it, marking a crucial step in upholding judicial accountability and integrity in Ghana’s democratic process.