Ghana's President Initiates Unprecedented Suspension of Chief Justice
In an historic first, Ghana's President Mahama suspends the Supreme Court's Chief Justice while an investigation unfolds.
In a surprising political move, President John Mahama of Ghana has suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. This action is unprecedented in the nation's judicial history and follows the filing of three undisclosed petitions alleging misconduct against her. Chief justices in Ghana typically enjoy a secure tenure, with removal only permissible under specific conditions like incompetence or misbehavior. The allegations and circumstances surrounding the petitions remain mostly confidential, with Torkornoo yet to publicly address them. Former attorney general Godfred Yeboah Dame condemned the suspension, characterizing it as an egregious attack on judicial independence. Torkornoo, nominated in 2023, previously survived a removal petition, which was dismissed by former President Akufo-Addo due to significant flaws. The current petitions were initially withheld, raising concerns about Torkornoo's right to a fair hearing. She will now respond to the accusations before a five-member committee deliberates on her potential removal from office.
In an historic first, Ghana's President Mahama suspends the Supreme Court's Chief Justice while an investigation unfolds.
In a surprising political move, President John Mahama of Ghana has suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. This action is unprecedented in the nation's judicial history and follows the filing of three undisclosed petitions alleging misconduct against her. Chief justices in Ghana typically enjoy a secure tenure, with removal only permissible under specific conditions like incompetence or misbehavior. The allegations and circumstances surrounding the petitions remain mostly confidential, with Torkornoo yet to publicly address them. Former attorney general Godfred Yeboah Dame condemned the suspension, characterizing it as an egregious attack on judicial independence. Torkornoo, nominated in 2023, previously survived a removal petition, which was dismissed by former President Akufo-Addo due to significant flaws. The current petitions were initially withheld, raising concerns about Torkornoo's right to a fair hearing. She will now respond to the accusations before a five-member committee deliberates on her potential removal from office.
