Ghana's Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo Dismissed Amid Controversy

Mon Sep 15 2025 16:39:39 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo by President John Mahama raises concerns over judicial independence in Ghana, following a commission's recommendation driven by allegations of misconduct.

Ghana's President John Mahama has removed Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo from office after an inquiry found evidence of misbehaviour linked to public funds misuse and procedural violations. Critics argue this decision undermines judicial independence, with the potential for political influence over the judiciary. Torkornoo, the first sitting chief justice to be investigated and dismissed, plans to challenge her removal 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 by three individuals.

The president-appointed commission found that 'grounds of stated misbehaviour... had been established and recommended her removal from office', prompting Mahama's decision. Torkornoo has dismissed the allegations as unfounded and politically motivated.

Critics of the decision argue it sets a troubling precedent that undermines judicial independence. In its investigation, the inquiry reviewed substantial evidence, including testimonies and documents, leading to findings of unlawful expenditure of public funds associated with her private travel.

Torkornoo's spouse and daughter reportedly received allowances during private trips funded by public resources, raising questions about corruption and ethical conduct in her office. Additionally, she has been accused of bypassing proper procedures in Supreme Court appointments.

As Ghana's third female chief justice, Torkornoo was nominated in 2023. Her dismissal marks a significant event, as she is the first sitting chief justice in the country to face such scrutiny and removal. During her term, she survived a previous request for removal under the former president Nana Akufo-Addo.

Legal experts and previous officials, including former deputy attorney general Alfred Tuah-Yeboah, have criticized the removal procedure, expressing concerns over potential political motivations and the implications for judicial integrity. They argue that the lack of clarity in what constitutes 'stated misbehaviour' could lead to manipulative interpretations by the executive branch.

Torkornoo may still challenge her dismissal in court, although the likelihood of success remains uncertain. As the situation unfolds, many await further developments regarding judicial independence and accountability in Ghana.