September 1, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama officially removed Chief Justice Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkonoo from her position, effective immediately. This announcement was made through a statement issued by the Presidency and signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who serves as the President’s Spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications. The statement explained that this decision was in accordance with Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution, following the President’s review of a committee report that was set up under Article 146(6) to investigate a petition from a Ghanaian citizen, Mr. Daniel Ofori.
Having considered the petition and evidence, the committee found that grounds of stated misbehaviour under Article 146(1) had been established and recommended her removal. Under Article 146(9), the President is required to act in accordance with the committee’s recommendation, the statement added.
No further details of the committee’s findings were provided in the announcement. The communication indicates the removal takes immediate effect.
Although the complete report from the committee has not been released, the statement highlights important constitutional provisions:
- Article 146(1) lists the grounds for removing a superior court judge which include stated misbehaviour, incompetence, or inability to perform the functions of office.
- Article 146(6) provides for the appointment of a committee to investigate a petition seeking the removal of a justice.
- Article 146(9) requires the President to act in accordance with the committee’s recommendation after receiving its report.
These provisions aim to ensure judicial accountability while maintaining due process and protecting removal decisions from unilateral actions by the executive branch.
The statement from the Presidency does not mention a successor or any interim arrangements.
By Nzematoday TV
