President Mahama Suspends Ghana’s Chief Justice Over Alleged Misconduct

President Mahama has suspended Chief Justice Torkornoo over misconduct allegations, including court record tampering and misuse of public funds.

President John Mahama has suspended Gertrude Torkornoo, Ghana’s Chief Justice, following serious allegations of misconduct. In a statement released Tuesday by presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the suspension comes after three citizens submitted a formal petition to the Council of State, citing accusations of tampering with court records and the misuse of public funds.

“In consultation with the Council of State, it was determined that a prima facie case has been established and that Torkornoo would be suspended while she is investigated,” the statement read.

Torkornoo, 61, who was appointed in June 2023 as Ghana’s 15th chief justice—and only the third woman to hold the position—is now at the center of a constitutional probe that is already being described as historic. Unlike her predecessors, who left office due to retirement or political transitions, Torkornoo’s suspension is the first of its kind involving a sitting chief justice through formal investigative channels.

President Mahama, who assumed office in January after a campaign that emphasised transparency and anti-corruption reforms, has given the suspended chief justice 10 days to formally respond to the allegations.

To lead the investigation, the president has constituted a five-member committee headed by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang. Other members include prominent anti-corruption advocate and former Auditor-General Daniel Domelevo.