Ghana president sacks chief justice over ‘abuse of office’

President John Mahama of Ghana has sacked Gertrude Torkonoo, the country’s chief justice, over alleged falsification of judicial records and misuse of public funds.

Torkonoo was removed after a five-member panel, chaired by a Supreme Court judge, upheld a petition by Ghanaian citizen Daniel Ofori and found her guilty of stated misbehaviour.

Felix Ofosu, spokesperson to the president, announced the decision in a statement on Monday. 

“President John Dramani Mahama has, in accordance with Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution, removed the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkonoo, from office with immediate effect,” the statement reads.

The decision marks the first time a sitting chief justice in Ghana has been investigated and dismissed from office.

Torkonoo, who was sworn in as Ghana’s 15th chief justice in June 2023, had pledged to strengthen judicial accountability and improve access to justice. 

Mahama, who assumed office in January, has repeatedly promised to intensify the fight against corruption.

While the president has acted in line with constitutional provisions, it remains unclear whether Torkonoo will face criminal prosecution.