Over Half of Ghanaians Support Chief Justice’s Removal Amid Allegations, Survey Reveals

A recent nationwide survey conducted by Global InfoAnalytics has revealed that 52% of Ghanaians support calls for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo from office. The data underscores rising public concern over allegations of misconduct and perceived procedural breaches within Ghana’s judicial system.

The controversy surrounding the Chief Justice dates back to December 2024, when renowned legal academic Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare submitted a formal petition to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. The petition accused Chief Justice Torkornoo of bypassing due process in the judicial appointment procedure—allegedly selecting specific judges and later submitting the same names to the Judicial Council for approval. According to Professor Asare, such actions could compromise the impartiality and integrity of Ghana’s judiciary.

However, in January 2025, President Akufo-Addo dismissed the petition, citing insufficient evidence to warrant any further action. The President also expressed concern that the matter had been leaked to the public before the appropriate constitutional processes had been followed, emphasizing the need for confidentiality in such sensitive judicial proceedings.

Despite the dismissal, the matter continues to stir national debate. Chief Justice Torkornoo, in a statement issued in March 2025, disclosed that she had not received the official petitions against her nor been given the opportunity to formally respond—an action she argues infringes upon her constitutional right to a fair process. She has since called for transparency and due process in handling the matter.

The issue has divided public opinion and sparked widespread legal discourse. While some legal experts caution against hasty decisions that could weaken the independence of the judiciary, others argue that the allegations deserve a thorough and transparent investigation to preserve public trust in the judicial system.

As Ghana continues to uphold its democratic values and rule of law, many are closely watching how this matter unfolds—balancing the need for accountability with the equally critical requirement of judicial independence.

The conversation surrounding the judiciary’s credibility remains active, and for many Ghanaians, the handling of this situation could set the tone for how future judicial concerns are addressed in the country.