Accra, Ghana — September 1, 2025
In a momentous and historic development, Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has dismissed Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo from office, effective immediately. This follows the findings of a constitutional committee set up under Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution, which determined that grounds for “misbehaviour” had been substantiated. The announcement was made today via an official statement from the president’s office.
Key Details & Background
- In April 2025, President Mahama suspended Chief Justice Torkornoo after establishing a prima facie case based on three petitions alleging misconduct.
- A five-member constitutional committee was subsequently formed—including two Supreme Court justices and three non-judicial members—to investigate the allegations, consistent with Article 146(6).
- Following the committee’s recommendation that removal was warranted, President Mahama formally removed Torkornoo as Chief Justice per Article 146(9).
- Torkornoo, appointed in June 2023, was Ghana’s third female Chief Justice. She denied all allegations, calling them unfounded and politically motivated.
- Reports confirm that Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, the most senior Supreme Court judge at the time, is expected to be named the substantive Chief Justice following parliamentary vetting.
Significance & Implications
- Judicial Precedent: Torkornoo is the first sitting Chief Justice to be removed under Ghana’s 1992 constitutional framework, marking a profoundly significant moment in the country’s legal history.
- Accountability vs. Independence: The move has heightened debate between ensuring judicial accountability and protecting judicial independence. The NPP and other critics have condemned the removal as politically driven.
- Broader Reforms: President Mahama’s administration is enacting sweeping institutional changes to tackle corruption and improve governance. This event underscores the judiciary’s critical position in that reform process.
Summary
- What happened? Chief Justice Torkornoo was removed following a constitutional inquiry.
- Why? Found guilty of “misbehaviour” by an Article 146 constitutional committee.
- Who’s next? Supreme Court judge Paul Baffoe-Bonnie is in line to be appointed as her successor, pending parliamentary approval.
- Why it matters? It’s a landmark case in judicial governance, accountability, and the evolving balance of power in Ghana.
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