I don’t see Mahama reinstating CJ even after probe - Sam Okudzeto

Sam Okudzeto, a former Council of State member, doubts President John Mahama will reinstate Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. This follows an ongoing investigation into multiple petitions against her.

Okudzeto spoke to Accra-based TV3. He acknowledged that the President acted constitutionally by suspending the Chief Justice. This action came after forming a committee to investigate the petitions.

Despite this, Okudzeto is skeptical about her return, even if cleared. “The President has the power to reinstate her,” he said. “But I don’t see it happening in this case.”

The Chief Justice was suspended on April 23, 2025. This followed advice from the Council of State and Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution. The article requires a committee to investigate a superior court judge once a prima facie case is established.

Okudzeto noted that while constitutional procedures are being followed, the timing raises concerns. Multiple petitions emerged after a similar one was dismissed under former President Akufo-Addo.

He recalled his time on the Council during Akufo-Addo's administration. An initial petition against Justice Torkornoo was dismissed after consultations with the Council of State.

"It had no merit," Okudzeto explained on Tuesday. He expressed concern over new petitions surfacing under the current government.

He stated that when people target someone, more petitions arise. "It’s dangerous for democracy when public opinion drives these actions," he added.

President Mahama cited Article 146(6) for establishing a committee to probe allegations against judges if there is sufficient evidence.

His statement indicated that enough grounds exist for further inquiry into Torkornoo's conduct.

The investigative committee includes:

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

Following Article 146(10) and advice from the Council of State, President Mahama suspended the Chief Justice immediately pending the committee's findings.