President John Dramani Mahama has suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo following the establishment of a prima facie case based on three separate petitions filed against her.
The suspension, effective immediately, is in line with Article 146(10) of the 1992 Constitution and follows the advice of the Council of State.
This development comes as part of a broader constitutional process initiated by the President to allow for an independent inquiry into the allegations.
In a statement signed by Minister for Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the presidency announced that a five-member committee has been constituted to investigate the petitions in accordance with Article 146(6) of the Constitution.
The members of the committee are Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, Justice of the Supreme Court – Chair, Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, Justice of the Supreme Court – Member, Daniel Yaw Domelevo, former Auditor-General – Member, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, Ghana Armed Forces – Member and Professor James Sefah Dzisah, Associate Professor, University of Ghana – Member
The committee has been tasked with conducting a thorough inquiry into the matters raised in the petitions.
The petitions, reportedly submitted by various individuals and civil society actors, allege misconduct and administrative lapses against Chief Justice Torkornoo in her official capacity.
While the specifics of the allegations have not been made public, the President’s action follows a constitutional procedure that mandates an initial determination of a prima facie case before any formal investigation begins.
The suspension is intended to allow for an impartial investigation while preserving the integrity of the judicial office.
This marks the first time in recent memory that a sitting Chief Justice has been suspended pending an inquiry under Article 146.
The outcome of the committee’s findings will determine whether the Chief Justice is reinstated or subjected to further constitutional sanctions.
The presidency has assured Ghanaians of its commitment to upholding the rule of law and due process in addressing the matter.
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