In a groundbreaking move, Ghana's President John Mahama suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, marking the first time a chief justice has faced such action in the country’s history. The suspension comes under the shadow of three undisclosed petitions alleging misconduct and incompetence, propelling an investigation into the judiciary's leadership. Historically, chief justices in Ghana have security of tenure and can only be removed for specific reasons, which include serious misbehaviour.
Suspension of Ghana's Chief Justice Raises Concerns Over Judicial Independence
Suspension of Ghana's Chief Justice Raises Concerns Over Judicial Independence
Ghana's President initiates historical suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo amid allegations, sparking debates over judicial integrity.
The allegations have not been publicly disclosed, but former Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame labeled the suspension as a severe affront to judicial independence. “It’s a complete charade,” he asserted, denouncing the move as the worst attack on the judiciary since the establishment of the current constitutional order. Appointed by ex-President Nana Akufo-Addo in 2023, Torkornoo's role encompasses the oversight of justice administration in Ghana.
Earlier this year, Torkornoo faced a separate petition for removal, which was ultimately deemed inadequate by former President Akufo-Addo due to numerous flaws. Initially, the new petitions were withheld from her, raising concerns that this violated her rights to a fair hearing. Following advocacy, the documents were finally shared, allowing her to prepare a written defense.
Torkornoo is set to engage with a five-member committee to address the allegations before any final decision regarding her position is made. Legal experts and civil society are observing developments closely, raising alarms about the implications for the rule of law and judicial independence in Ghana. As the situation unfolds, many are calling for transparency and fairness in the proceedings.
Earlier this year, Torkornoo faced a separate petition for removal, which was ultimately deemed inadequate by former President Akufo-Addo due to numerous flaws. Initially, the new petitions were withheld from her, raising concerns that this violated her rights to a fair hearing. Following advocacy, the documents were finally shared, allowing her to prepare a written defense.
Torkornoo is set to engage with a five-member committee to address the allegations before any final decision regarding her position is made. Legal experts and civil society are observing developments closely, raising alarms about the implications for the rule of law and judicial independence in Ghana. As the situation unfolds, many are calling for transparency and fairness in the proceedings.
