President Mahama Suspends Chief Justice, Sets Up Committee to Probe Petitions

President John Dramani Mahama has suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo following the establishment of a prima facie case against her. The decision comes after three separate petitions were filed and reviewed in accordance with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State.

A five-member committee has been constituted by the President to investigate the allegations. The committee comprises:

1. Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, Justice of the Supreme Court – Chairman
2. Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, Justice of the Supreme Court – Member
3. Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Former Auditor-General – Member
4. Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo of the Ghana Armed Forces – Member
5. Professor James Sefah Dzisah, Associate Professor at the University of Ghana – Member

According to a statement released by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister for Government Communications and Spokesperson to the President, the suspension takes immediate effect and is in line with Article 146(10) of the Constitution. The Chief Justice will remain suspended pending the outcome of the committee’s investigation.

The Presidency has emphasized that the move is aimed at upholding the integrity of the judiciary and ensuring due process is followed in line with constitutional provisions.

Further updates will be provided as the committee proceeds with its work.