Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama on Monday announced the dismissal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkonoo after an investigation found her guilty of alleged abuse of office.
The 61-year-old, who became the third woman to lead Ghana’s judiciary when she assumed the role in 2023, was suspended following a series of complaints lodged against her.
To probe the matter, President Mahama set up a five-member commission headed by a Supreme Court judge. The commission examined allegations ranging from falsification of judicial records to misuse of public funds.
In its findings, the commission concluded that the accusations “had been established and recommended her removal from office,” according to a statement from the presidency.
“President John Dramani Mahama has… removed the Chief Justice… from office with immediate effect,” the statement confirmed.
This unprecedented move marks the first time in Ghana’s history that a sitting chief justice has been investigated and dismissed.
President Mahama, who took office in January, has repeatedly pledged to fight corruption across the country. It remains uncertain whether Torkonoo will face any criminal charges following her dismissal.
What you should know
Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkonoo, Ghana’s first sitting chief justice to be dismissed, was removed by President Mahama after an inquiry confirmed abuse of office allegations.
The decision underscores Mahama’s anti-corruption stance but leaves open the question of possible criminal proceedings.
