Ghana’s President Mahama dismisses Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Torkonoo over abuse of office
On April 22, 2025, President Mahama suspended her following a preliminary review that found merit in complaints alleging misconduct, abuse of office, and incompetence.
Ghana has dismissed its Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkonoo, after an investigation found her guilty of alleged abuse of office, the presidency announced on Monday. The decision marks the first time in the country’s history that a sitting Chief Justice has been removed from office.
In a statement shared on X and signed by Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the presidency confirmed that the removal takes immediate effect.
"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, seen by The Eastleigh Voice, reads.
Araba, 61, was sworn in on June 12, 2023, becoming the third woman to head Ghana’s Supreme Court. She succeeded Justice Anin Yeboah, who retired on May 24, 2023. Before her, Justices Georgina Theodora Wood (2007–2017) and Sophia Akuffo (2017–2020) were the only women to have held the post.
On April 22, 2025, President Mahama suspended her following a preliminary review that found merit in complaints alleging misconduct, abuse of office, and incompetence.
A five-member commission, led by a Supreme Court judge, later investigated the claims, which included falsifying judicial records and misusing public funds, and concluded that they were substantiated. The panel recommended her dismissal.
"This (removal) follows receipt of the report of the Committee constituted under Article 146 (6) to inquire into a petition submitted by a Ghanaian citizen, Mr Daniel Ofori," the presidency statement reads.
"After considering the petition and the evidence, the Committee found that the grounds of stated misbehaviour under Article 146 (!) had been established and recommended her removal from office. Under Article 146 (9), the President is required to act in accordance with the committee's recommendations."
It is not yet clear whether Araba will face criminal charges.
Top Stories Today
