President Mahama Suspends Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, Sets Up Five-Member Probe Committee

In a decisive move on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama has suspended Ghana’s Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, following the establishment of a prima facie case in response to three petitions lodged against her.

The action, taken in accordance with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State, sets in motion a formal inquiry into the petitions. President Mahama has, as required by the law, constituted a five-member committee to probe the allegations.

Members of the Committee:

1. Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang – Justice of the Supreme Court (Chairman)
2. Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu – Justice of the Supreme Court (Member)
3. Daniel Yaw Domelevo – Former Auditor-General (Member)
4. Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo – Ghana Armed Forces (Member)
5. Professor James Sefah Dzisah – Associate Professor, University of Ghana (Member)

The composition of the committee reflects a blend of judicial expertise, integrity, and institutional representation from academia and the armed forces.

Suspension with Immediate Effect

Citing Article 146(10) of the Constitution, President Mahama has acted on the advice of the Council of State to suspend Chief Justice Torkornoo with immediate effect, pending the outcome of the committee’s investigations.

This move is seen as a commitment to upholding transparency and the rule of law within Ghana’s judicial system, while also preserving the integrity of the office of the Chief Justice.

Official Communication

The announcement was made in a statement signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, MP and Spokesperson to the President, who also serves as the Minister for Government Communications.

As this high-profile investigation unfolds, Ghanaians and the legal community await the committee’s findings, which are expected to shape the future of judicial accountability in the country.