Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo may return to her position if she successfully defends herself against the allegations leveled against her, according to private legal practitioner and National Democratic Congress (NDC) member Abraham Amaliba.
Amaliba emphasized that President John Dramani Mahama is adhering to due process in handling the petitions calling for her removal.
"The suspended Chief Justice still has a chance to resume her duties if she exonerates herself. The President is following the proper constitutional steps," Amaliba stated during an appearance on TV3’s Key Points on Saturday, April 26.
Constitutional Process Underway
President Mahama, acting in line with Article 146(6) of Ghana’s Constitution and after consulting the Council of State, determined that a prima facie case had been established regarding three separate petitions against Justice Torkornoo.
A statement from the Presidency on Tuesday, April 22, confirmed her immediate suspension pending the outcome of a committee’s investigation.
"The President, in accordance with Article 146(10) and upon the Council of State’s advice, has suspended the Chief Justice effective immediately while the committee conducts its inquiry," said Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister for Government Communications.
Committee Members Announced
The President has appointed a five-member committee to investigate the allegations, composed of:
- Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang (Supreme Court Justice) – Chairman
- Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu (Supreme Court Justice) – Member
- Daniel Yaw Domelevo (Former Auditor-General) – Member
- Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo (Ghana Armed Forces) – Member
- Professor James Sefah Dzisah (Associate Professor, University of Ghana) – Member
Petitions Trigger Constitutional Action
President Mahama had earlier forwarded the petitions to the Council of State on March 25, 2025, seeking guidance as mandated by Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution. The petitions, submitted by various individuals, called for the Chief Justice’s removal over undisclosed grievances.
Following protocol, the Chief Justice was given the opportunity to respond to the allegations before the suspension was enacted. The committee’s findings will determine whether she retains her position or faces further consequences.
The case continues to unfold as Ghanaians await the outcome of this high-stakes judicial inquiry.
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