Mahama Dismisses Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo Over Misconduct

In a dramatic shake-up within Ghana’s judiciary, President John Mahama has dismissed Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo with immediate effect after a constitutional committee established her misconduct.

The President’s decision followed the receipt of a report from a committee constituted under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution. The inquiry was triggered by a petition filed by Ghanaian citizen Daniel Ofori, one of three petitions lodged against the Chief Justice.

After reviewing extensive testimonies and evidence, the committee concluded that the Chief Justice was guilty of stated misbehaviour as defined under Article 146(1). The findings left President Mahama with no option but to act, as the Constitution’s Article 146(9) mandates the head of state to implement the committee’s recommendation.

A statement from the presidency, signed by Minister for Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, confirmed the dismissal. It noted that the decision takes effect immediately, signaling a major shift in the country’s judicial leadership.

“In line with constitutional provisions, the President has removed Justice Gertrude Torkornoo from office on grounds of stated misbehaviour. This decision is effective immediately,” the statement read.

This development marks a rare constitutional enforcement at the highest level of Ghana’s judiciary, with significant political and legal implications expected in the coming days.