Mahama Sacks Chief Justice Torkornoo After Committee Report
President John Dramani Mahama has officially removed the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, from office with immediate effect.
The announcement was made on Monday, September 1, 2025, in a statement issued by the Minister for Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson, Mr. Felix Kwakye Ofosu.
The removal follows the submission of a report by a Committee of Inquiry constituted under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution to investigate a petition filed by a Ghanaian citizen, Mr. Daniel Ofori. The petition alleged acts of stated misbehaviour by the Chief Justice which fall under Article 146(1) of the Constitution.
After a thorough review of the petition, evidence, and testimonies presented, the Committee found the allegations to be substantiated. Consequently, it recommended the removal of Chief Justice Torkornoo from office.
In line with Article 146(9) of the Constitution, the President is constitutionally mandated to act upon the recommendations of such a committee. As such, President Mahama implemented the recommendation, effectively bringing an end to Justice Torkornoo’s tenure.
Mr. Kwakye Ofosu emphasized that the entire process was conducted in strict accordance with constitutional provisions. He assured the public that both the petitioner and the Chief Justice were given full opportunity to present their cases before the Committee, thereby ensuring a fair and transparent inquiry.
The government has called for calm and reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.
Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Torkornoo was appointed as Chief Justice in 2023 and served until her removal in 2025. Her tenure, although short, was marked by key reforms in judicial administration and digital transformation of court processes.
Further details regarding the appointment of an acting Chief Justice or a substantive replacement are expected to be announced in the coming days.