Ghana's Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo Dismissed Amid Controversy

Sat Sep 13 2025 09:05:32 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Ghana's President John Mahama has dismissed Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo following an inquiry into allegations of misconduct, raising concerns over judicial independence and political interference.

The dismissal of Gertrude Torkornoo, the third female Chief Justice of Ghana, has sparked a national debate. Following her suspension in April due to complaints, a presidential commission recommended her removal based on findings of misbehavior, including misuse of public funds and interference in appointments. While her removal is considered by some a necessary action, critics argue it threatens the independence of the judiciary and sets a concerning precedent. Torkornoo has labeled the allegations as politically motivated and plans to challenge her dismissal legally.

Ghana's Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo Dismissed Amid Controversy

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 found that grounds of stated misbehaviour... 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; however, critics fear it sets a worrying precedent that undermines judicial independence.

The commission's investigation reportedly reviewed 10,000 pages of evidence from 13 witnesses. Torkornoo testified and presented 12 other witnesses, including expert testimonies.

Along with her removal as Chief Justice, she lost her position as a Supreme Court judge due to findings of unlawful expenditure of public funds linked to her travel. Allegations also included bypassing appointment procedures for Supreme Court judges and abusing power in judicial employee transfers.

Nominated in 2023 by former President Nana Akufo-Addo, Ms Torkornoo became Ghana's third female chief justice, making her the first sitting chief justice to be investigated and dismissed. Critics argue that the decision could erode judicial independence and allow the executive to exert undue influence on judges, leading to diminished public trust in the legal system.

Legal experts, including William Nyarko from the Africa Centre for Law and Accountability, have called for a review of the laws governing the removal of a chief justice, arguing existing criteria leave room for manipulation. Despite her dismissal, Ms Torkornoo has the option to challenge the decision in court.