Ghana's President Shakes Judiciary with Historic Chief Justice Suspension

In an extraordinary turn of events, President John Mahama of Ghana has suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, triggering a wave of reactions across the nation. This marks the first time a Supreme Court chief justice has faced such a significant action in Ghana's legal history. The suspension follows the filing of three undisclosed petitions that allege misconduct by Torkornoo, who made history as the nation’s third female chief justice after her appointment in 2023 by former president Nana Akufo-Addo.

Torkornoo's security of tenure is traditionally robust, with removal only permissible under severe conditions such as incompetence or misbehavior. The details of the petitions have not been disclosed, leading to accusations from former attorney general Godfred Yeboah Dame, who claims this suspension is a direct attack on the judiciary's integrity.

Earlier in the year, Torkornoo faced a request for dismissal that was dismissed by Akufo-Addo, citing deficiencies in the petition. Although she was initially not provided with copies of the new allegations, legal representatives argue that withholding such information violates her right to a fair hearing. Following pressure, the petition documents were shared with her, allowing Torkornoo to prepare a response.

The next phase will see her invited to address the petitions before a committee decides on her potential removal. Observers and legal professionals are closely monitoring the situation, with concerns about the implications for judicial independence in Ghana.