Suspension of Chief Justice Torkornoo Deepens as Two New Petitions Emerge
ACCRA — April 22, 2025 — The Office of the President has confirmed receipt of two new petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, escalating a growing constitutional crisis that has now seen a total of five petitions filed against Ghana’s top judicial officer.
While the identities of the petitioners remain undisclosed—in line with Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution—sources familiar with the process indicate that the allegations involve misconduct and abuse of power. The first three petitions were filed on February 14 and March 17, 2025 by separate individuals, sparking the legal proceedings that have led to the Chief Justice’s current suspension.
Suspension Triggers National Debate
President John Dramani Mahama, acting upon advice from the Council of State and following a prima facie determination by an investigative committee, formally suspended Chief Justice Torkornoo on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. The action was taken under Article 146(6) of the Constitution, which empowers the President to suspend a Justice of the Superior Court pending the outcome of a full inquiry.
In accordance with procedure, Justice Torkornoo was initially given 10 days to respond to the allegations. She submitted her defence on April 7, after which a decision was made to escalate the matter to a full investigation.
In the interim, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, the most senior Supreme Court judge, has been appointed to serve as Acting Chief Justice, as outlined in Article 144(6) of the Constitution.
Reactions: Accusations of Political Interference
The unfolding events have sparked sharp political and legal debate. Critics—especially within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and civil society—argue that the suspension reflects a politically motivated attempt by the government to reshape the judiciary to its advantage.
Former NPP parliamentary candidate Akosua Manu described the development as a step toward “judicial capture.” Meanwhile, respected legal analyst Prof. H. Kwasi Prempeh of CDD-Ghana has called for greater transparency, urging that the basis and outcomes of the removal proceedings be made public.
“This isn’t just about a judge—it’s about public trust in one of our most important democratic institutions,” Prempeh said.
Next Steps in a Precedent-Setting Case
A five-member committee is expected to be constituted to conduct a full investigation into the allegations. Until then, Chief Justice Torkornoo remains suspended, marking one of the most consequential episodes in Ghana’s judicial history.
As the legal process unfolds, the Ghanaian public—and observers of democracy around the world—will be watching closely to see whether this is a triumph of constitutional due process or a troubling signal of judicial politicization.
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