BREAKING: Mahama suspends Chief Justice

President John Dramani Mahama has suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo. This follows a prima facie case from three separate petitions against her.

The decision was made with the Council of State's advice. It aligns with Article 146(6) and (10) of Ghana's 1992 Constitution.

On Tuesday, the Presidency announced a five-member committee to investigate the petitions. The committee is chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang. Other members include:

- Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, Supreme Court Judge
- Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Former Auditor-General
- Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, Ghana Armed Forces
- Professor James Sefah Dzisah, Associate Professor at the University of Ghana

Chief Justice Torkornoo is suspended immediately by presidential warrant. This suspension will last until the committee completes its proceedings.

Background

The petitions include one from Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare in December 2024. They accuse Chief Justice Torkornoo of administrative misconduct.

Allegations involve unauthorized reconstitution of judicial panels and improper practice directions. There are also claims of breaches regarding judicial appointments.

In March 2025, Chief Justice Torkornoo requested copies of the petitions from President Mahama. She emphasized her right to a fair hearing before an investigative committee forms.

This situation is significant for Ghana's judicial history. It marks the first time a sitting Chief Justice has been suspended pending investigation.

The committee's findings will decide if Chief Justice Torkornoo will be removed from office. Further updates will follow as the investigation continues.