Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has dismissed Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkonoo after a five-member judicial panel found her guilty of falsifying court records and misusing public funds. The decision, announced on Monday by presidential spokesperson Felix Ofosu, was taken in line with Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution and takes immediate effect.
The panel’s ruling came after a petition filed by Ghanaian citizen Daniel Ofori was upheld, confirming allegations of “stated misbehaviour” against the chief justice. Torkonoo, who was appointed in June 2023 as Ghana’s 15th chief justice, had vowed to improve transparency and access to justice but now becomes the first sitting chief justice in the country’s history to be investigated and removed from office.
President Mahama, who took office in January, has repeatedly pledged to intensify Ghana’s anti-corruption drive, with this unprecedented move underscoring his stance. While her removal is constitutionally grounded, it remains uncertain whether Torkonoo will face criminal charges in addition to her dismissal.