The five-member committee set up to investigate the potential removal of Ghana’s Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, officially began its closed-door proceedings today, Thursday, May 15, 2025.
President John Dramani Mahama established the committee after determining that a case had been made against the Chief Justice based on three separate petitions alleging misconduct.
The inquiry is being led by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang and includes a blend of legal, military, and academic figures:
- Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu (Supreme Court)
- Daniel Yaw Domelevo (former Auditor-General)
- Major Flora Bazaanura Dalugo (Ghana Armed Forces)
- Professor James Sefah Dzisah (University of Ghana)
The committee was set up under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution, following consultations with the Council of State.
Its mandate is clear, which is to investigate the allegations and submit recommendations to the President. Members are expected to meet three times a week until the inquiry is concluded.
On April 22, 2025, President Mahama suspended Chief Justice Torkornoo in accordance with constitutional provisions.
Until the process is resolved, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, the most senior judge on the Supreme Court, is serving as Acting Chief Justice.
Confidential hearings in line with law
As required by the Constitution, the hearings are being held in-camera to protect the integrity of the process and the privacy of all involved.
Article 146 explicitly mandates such confidentiality during judicial disciplinary proceedings.
Once the hearings are complete, the committee will submit its findings and recommendations to the President for a final decision.
The stakes are high. The outcome of this inquiry could mark a significant moment for Ghana’s judicial system, with broad implications for both accountability and the independence of the judiciary.
By: J.W Quarm
