President John Dramani Mahama has suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo following a preliminary investigation that found sufficient grounds to warrant a formal inquiry into her conduct.
The suspension, announced April 22, comes after three separate petitions were submitted calling for her removal. President Mahama acted in consultation with the Council of State, as required by Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.
While the specifics of the allegations have not been disclosed, the case has stirred national debate on judicial accountability and transparency. Torkornoo was given 10 days to respond to the petitions and submitted her written defense on April 7.
After reviewing her response, the president determined that a prima facie case had been made. A five-member committee composed of legal experts, academics and former officials has been appointed to investigate further under constitutional guidelines.
The Chief Justice will remain suspended while the committee conducts its work, which could carry significant implications for Ghana’s judiciary depending on its findings.