Revealed – Two new petitions filed against suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo

Suspended Chief Justice of Ghana, Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, is now facing a total of five petitions for her removal from office following the submission of two additional petitions.

The latest development intensifies the legal and political scrutiny surrounding her role, bringing fresh attention to the controversy that led to her suspension by President John Dramani Mahama.

Presidential Suspension Based on Prima Facie Case

According to a communication from the Presidency, signed by the Minister of Government Communication, President Mahama suspended the Chief Justice after a prima facie case was established against her by the Council of State in respect of the initial three petitions.

The statement clarified:
“President John Dramani Mahama has, in accordance with Article 146(6) of the Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State, determined that a prima facie case has been established in respect of three petitions against the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.”

Five-Member Committee Set Up to Investigate

In line with constitutional procedures, the President has constituted a five-member committee to probe the allegations made in all five petitions.

The committee composition is as follows:

• Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang – Justice of the Supreme Court (Chairman)
• Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu Asiedu – Justice of the Supreme Court (Member)
• Daniel Yaw Domelevo – Former Auditor-General (Member)
• Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo – Ghana Armed Forces (Member)
• Professor James Sefah Dzisah – Associate Professor, University of Ghana (Member)

High Stakes for Judiciary and Governance

The suspension and ongoing investigations have sparked intense national interest, with legal analysts, political actors, and civil society groups closely monitoring the process. The outcome of the committee’s work could have far-reaching implications for judicial independence and public trust in the country’s governance institutions.

Further updates are expected as the committee begins its inquiry into the growing number of petitions against the Chief Justice.