Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has criticised the process that led to the removal of Justice Gertrude Torkornoo as Chief Justice, arguing that it lacked fairness.
Speaking to TV3’s Joseph Ackah-Blay on Tuesday, September 2, Ms. Akuffo said the proceedings were handled with undue severity. “She did not get a fair trial. Even though it was not a trial in the strict sense, it was treated as though it were a treason case,” she remarked.
Justice Torkornoo was officially removed from office on Monday, September 1, following a directive from President John Dramani Mahama. A statement issued by the Minister of Government Communications confirmed her dismissal in line with Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution.
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The President’s decision was based on the findings of a five-member committee, which investigated three separate petitions alleging stated misbehaviour under Article 146(1). The committee, chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, concluded that grounds for her removal had been established.
Other members of the panel 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.
Justice Torkornoo had earlier been suspended on April 22, 2025, after a prima facie case was established against her. The suspension was carried out in consultation with the Council of State, in accordance with constitutional provisions.
Presenting the report to the President, Justice Pwamang said the committee’s mandate was to conduct its inquiry in camera, allow the Chief Justice to defend herself—personally or through legal counsel—and make a recommendation based on the evidence presented.
Despite these constitutional steps, Sophia Akuffo maintains that the handling of the matter did not meet the standards of fairness expected in such a high-profile case.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem