Group files suit at Supreme Court to halt removal of suspended CJ

A civil society organization, the Centre for Citizenship, Constitutional and Electoral Systems, has filed a suit at the Supreme Court. They are challenging the constitutionality of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo's removal process.

President John Dramani Mahama suspended Chief Justice Torkonoo on April 22, 2025. This followed a prima facie case established against her. The suspension came after petitions from Daniel Ofori, Ayamga Akolgo, and the group Shining Stars of Ghana.

In its writ, the organization asks the Supreme Court to declare the President’s actions unconstitutional. They argue that these actions violated key provisions of the 1992 Constitution. Specifically, they cite Articles 17(1)–(3), 23, 296, and 146(1)–(4) and (6).

The group claims that due process was not followed in this case. They believe fairness and lawful administrative conduct were not upheld as required by the Constitution. This legal action adds to the ongoing controversy over Chief Justice Torkonoo's suspension.

It also fuels national discussions about judicial independence and constitutional accountability. Meanwhile, a five-member committee will begin hearings today on May 15, 2025. President Mahama set up this committee to investigate the petitions against Chief Justice Torkonoo.

The committee is chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang. It was formed under Article 146(6) of the Constitution after consulting with the Council of State. Earlier on May 6, 2025, the Supreme Court dismissed an application to halt Torkonoo's removal process.

This decision was made in a close ruling of 3–2. Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie delivered the majority opinion along with Justices Yonny Kulendi and Amadu Tanko. Justices Henrietta Mensah Bonsu and Ernest Gaewu dissented.

The court plans to release its full judgment on May 21, 2025.