There has never been the removal of a Chief Justice in Ghana’s 68 years of history- Suspended CJ

The suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, has highlighted a troubling first in Ghana’s history, stating that in all of the country’s 68 years as an independent republic, there has never been the removal of a Chief Justice.

In her address during a press conference held in Accra on Wednesday, June 25, she expressed the hope that if such a process were ever necessary, it would be conducted with fairness and integrity, serving as a positive precedent for nation-building. Unfortunately, she says, the proceedings against her have violated these expectations.

“Every step of the removal process being undertaken against me has broken the fundamental rules on how justice is delivered in this country,” Justice Torkornoo said.

“This is why I find it necessary to draw the nation’s attention to the serious violations of the Constitution and the law that are occurring — and the danger this poses to the development of our democracy.”

Justice Gertrude Torkornoo was suspended on April 22, 2025, by President John Mahama following three petitions that led to a prima facie determination. With the consent of the Council of State, a five-member inquiry committee was established under Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution to investigate the matter.

This move is unprecedented since the adoption of the 1992 Constitution and resulted in the appointment of the next most senior Supreme Court justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, as acting Chief Justice. The suspension has sparked controversy and accusations of political interference from opposition parties.

Ms. Torkornoo, Ghana’s third female Chief Justice since June 2023, has since filed a legal challenge in the Supreme Court to contest her suspension and to prevent members of the inquiry committee from adjudicating her removal.

Legal experts, including Alfred Tuah-Yeboah, have underscored her constitutional right to defend herself and to challenge any procedural flaws.

As the case unfolds, Justice Torkornoo’s firm opposition underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding judicial independence and due process within Ghana’s governance.

Legal experts and civil society leaders have voiced concerns over the fairness and transparency of the process, warning that undermining the highest judicial office risks destabilizing the democratic framework Ghana has built over decades.

For many citizens, this case is about more than one individual; it is about safeguarding the rule of law and ensuring that the pillars of democracy remain strong.