Controversy Surrounds the Dismissal of Ghana's Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo

Sat Sep 13 2025 23:09:10 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Gertrude Torkornoo, Ghana's Chief Justice, has been removed from office following an investigation into allegations of misconduct. The decision raises concerns about judicial independence in the country.

Ghana's President John Mahama has dismissed Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo after an inquiry found grounds for her removal based on complaints of misbehavior. Critics warn this sets a dangerous precedent for judicial independence, as Torkornoo had been on suspension since April amidst allegations of misusing public funds and interfering with judicial appointments. The inquiry involved a thorough review of evidence and testimonies. Torkornoo has firmly rejected the allegations and maintains that they are politically motivated.

Ghana's President John Mahama has fired the country's Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo following a recommendation by an inquiry.

She had been on suspension since April after complaints were lodged against her in petitions by three individuals.

A president-appointed commission then found that grounds of stated misbehavior... had been established and recommended her removal from office, Mahama's office said on Monday. Ms Torkornoo has dismissed the allegations as unfounded and politically motivated.

The presidency stated Mahama was required to act in accordance with the committee's recommendations, but critics fear it sets a worrying precedent and undermines judicial independence.

In its investigation, the panel reviewed 10,000 pages of evidence from 13 witnesses on behalf of petitioner Daniel Ofori. The chief justice also testified and called 12 other witnesses, including experts.

The two other petitions against her have not been concluded.

Ms Torkornoo has also been removed as a judge of the Supreme Court following the committee's findings.

The inquiry found evidence of unlawful expenditure of public funds linked to her private travel. Her spouse and daughter were reportedly paid allowances using public funds during private trips.

She also faced allegations of interference in appointments and abuse of powers regarding judiciary employees.

Ms Torkornoo, the third female chief justice in Ghana, was nominated in 2023 by former President Nana Akufo-Addo.

She is the first sitting chief justice to be investigated and dismissed.

Critics argue Ms Torkornoo's removal could erode the independence of the judiciary, allowing the executive branch to exert undue influence over judges.

If left unchecked, this could undermine public trust in the legal system. William Nyarko, director of the Africa Centre for Law and Accountability, has called for a review of the law governing the removal of a chief justice due to its vague interpretations.

However, Ms Torkornoo still has the opportunity to challenge her removal in court, despite the political implications.