President John Mahama of Ghana has suspended the country’s Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Esaaba Torkornoo, following serious allegations of misconduct.
The suspension was announced on Tuesday, April 22, after three separate petitions were sent to the presidency, demanding her removal. The Chief Justice is accused of tampering with court records and misusing public funds.
According to a statement from the presidency, Mahama made the decision after consulting with the Council of State. The statement explained that a prima facie case had been established against the Chief Justice, which means there is enough evidence to begin a formal investigation. As a result, Justice Torkornoo will remain suspended while the investigation continues.
A five-member committee has been set up to probe the case. The committee is being led by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang, and includes former auditor-general Daniel Domelevo. The full details of the allegations have not been made public.
Justice Torkornoo, who is 61 years old, was appointed in June 2023. She became Ghana’s 15th Chief Justice and the third woman to ever hold the position. Her suspension is a historic one, as it marks the first time a sitting Chief Justice in Ghana is being formally investigated through a constitutional process.
President Mahama, who came into office in January 2025, has promised to take strong action against corruption. This suspension is seen as a major step in his pledge to promote accountability in government.
