Chief Justice Removed After Article 146 Inquiry
Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has officially been removed from office following the conclusion of an inquiry by the Article 146 Committee. President John Dramani Mahama announced the decision on Monday, September 1, 2025, after receiving the committee’s report.
The removal comes after three separate petitions were submitted calling for her dismissal. A prima facie case was established, leading to her suspension on April 22, 2025, in line with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State. Following this, President Mahama constituted a five-member committee to conduct a full inquiry into the matter.
Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang of the Supreme Court chaired the committee. Other members included former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazaanura Dalugo of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Professor James Sefah Dzisah of the University of Ghana. Their mandate was to investigate the petitions in camera, allow Justice Torkornoo to defend herself either personally or through legal representation, and provide recommendations to the President.
Justice Pwamang noted during the presentation of the report that the committee worked strictly within the remit of Article 146 Clauses (7) and (8), ensuring due process. President Mahama is expected to communicate the next constitutional steps following the committee’s recommendation.
Justice Torkornoo’s removal marks a significant moment in Ghana’s judicial history, as she is the second Chief Justice in recent memory to face such proceedings. The government has called for calm as constitutional processes continue.