On Tuesday, the President of Ghana announced the suspension of the country’s highest-ranking judge, the Chief Justice, pending an investigation into her alleged misconduct.
This action against Supreme Court Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Torkornoo follows three separate petitions calling for her dismissal. The accusations against her include altering court records and misappropriating public funds.
A spokesperson for President John Mahama stated that “in consultation with the Council of State, a prima facie case has been established,” and that Torkornoo will be suspended during the investigation.
Specific information regarding the allegations that the five-member inquiry committee will examine has not been disclosed.
Mahama, who assumed office in January, has vowed to combat corruption in the West African country.
Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang chairs the investigation committee, which also includes former auditor-general Daniel Domelevo.
At 61 years old, Torkornoo was appointed in June 2023, making her Ghana’s 15th Chief Justice and the third woman to hold this position.
While previous judicial leaders have departed due to retirement or political changes, her suspension marks the first instance of a sitting chief justice being subjected to a formal investigation through a constitutional process.
