President John Dramani Mahama has officially suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo and established a five-member committee to probe three separate petitions accusing her of misconduct, abuse of office, and violations of constitutional principles.
The decision follows the formation of a prima facie case and is in strict accordance with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution, after consultation with the Council of State. The appointed committee will conduct a thorough investigation into the serious allegations leveled against the Chief Justice, including irregularities in Supreme Court panel reconstitutions and breaches in judicial appointments.
The committee members are:
- Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, Supreme Court Judge – Chairman
- Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, Supreme Court Judge – Member
- Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Former Auditor-General – Member
- Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, Ghana Armed Forces – Member
- Professor James Sefah Dzisah, University of Ghana – Member
The committee’s diverse membership, combining expertise in law, academics, military, and accountability, highlights the government’s commitment to transparency and ensuring a fair inquiry.
A statement from the President’s spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, reiterated that this move is in line with constitutional requirements and is intended to maintain public trust in Ghana’s judiciary.
Among the allegations are claims that the Chief Justice engaged in unauthorized actions, such as issuing legal practice directions without the necessary legal framework and altering the composition of Supreme Court panels unlawfully. The petitions were filed by various individuals, including prominent constitutional law scholar Prof. Stephen Kwaku Asare.
The President’s suspension of the Chief Justice remains in place pending the outcome of the investigation, with the committee expected to begin its work soon. Further updates are anticipated as the inquiry progresses.
