“President Mahama removes Chief Justice from office upon recommendation of the Committee set up to probe petitions against her”, according to Presidency.
President John Dramani Mahama has finally removed Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo from office, based on the recommendation of a committee set up to investigate petitions against her.
This decision was made in accordance with Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, which mandates the President to act in accordance with the recommendations of such a committee.¹
The committee, chaired by Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, found that the allegations of misbehavior against Chief Justice Torkornoo were substantiated, leading to the recommendation for her removal.
The committee conducted its work in camera, as required by Article 146(7) and (8) of the Constitution, and refrained from public commentary despite facing criticism.
The position of Chief Justice is now vacant, and the Judicial Council is expected to initiate processes for the nomination and appointment of a successor.
The removal has sparked debate, with some questioning the implications for judicial independence and constitutional governance in Ghana.
Chief Justice Torkornoo served just over two years in the role, having been appointed by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in June 2023. Her tenure saw efforts to digitize Ghana’s court systems and promote judicial reforms, but was also marked by public controversies and criticisms.
Attached statement issued by the presidency
