Ghanaian President John Mahama has dismissed Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo following the recommendation of an official inquiry, the presidency confirmed on Tuesday.
Torkornoo, 61, becomes the first sitting Chief Justice in Ghana to be investigated and removed from office.
She was appointed Chief Justice on June 12, 2023, by former President Nana Akufo-Addo, after serving in various capacities within Ghana’s judiciary, including as a High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court judge.
Her tenure was noted for efforts to improve judicial efficiency and transparency.
The dismissal follows a petition alleging misconduct, which prompted the formation of a five-member committee chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang.
The committee, in its report, cited “stated misbehaviour” as grounds for her removal under Article 146 of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.
President Mahama acted on the committee’s recommendation in accordance with the Constitution.
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Justice Torkornoo has denied the allegations, describing them as unfounded and politically motivated.
Following her dismissal, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, the most senior judge of the Supreme Court, has been appointed as acting Chief Justice until a permanent successor is named.
The decision has sparked reactions across Ghana’s political and legal spheres. Supporters argue it reinforces accountability and the rule of law, while critics view it as a potential threat to judicial independence.
The Ghana Bar Association has called for transparency and thorough review of the process.
Observers say the removal of Justice Torkornoo marks a historic moment in Ghana’s judiciary and raises questions about governance, judicial oversight, and the future direction of the country’s legal system.