CJ suspension: Read full petition by Ayamga Yakubu Akolgo alleging misconduct and abuse of power

Accra, Ghana – Ayamga Yakubu Akolgo, a private citizen and legal activist, has filed a petition demanding the suspension and removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Torkornoo from office over what he describes as “grave misconduct” and “abuse of judicial authority.”

The petition, addressed to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and dated [insert date], outlines a series of allegations centered around administrative irregularities, ethical breaches, and what the petitioner terms “a pattern of systemic overreach” by the Chief Justice.

Among the key claims made in the petition are:

• Violation of Judicial Ethics: Akolgo accuses the Chief Justice of manipulating judicial processes and influencing the assignment of cases, particularly in politically sensitive matters.

• Abuse of Administrative Powers: The petition cites instances where the Chief Justice allegedly overstepped her administrative mandate, sidelining established protocols within the Judicial Service.

• Complicity in Political Interference: According to Akolgo, some of the CJ’s recent decisions reflect a political bias, thereby undermining public trust in the judiciary’s independence.

“The Chief Justice holds a position of sacred trust. Where that trust is violated, the Constitution provides remedies,” the petitioner writes.

Akolgo has urged the President to refer the matter to the Chief Justice's peers through the constitutional mechanism under Article 146, which governs the removal of superior court judges.

Public and Legal Reactions

Though the presidency has not officially responded to the petition, legal experts note that if a prima facie case is established, the process could trigger the formation of a committee to investigate the matter — a process similar to what has occurred in past judicial impeachment proceedings.

The Chief Justice has not issued any public comment or statement regarding the allegations as of the time of this report.

The development is already stirring conversations among legal practitioners, civil society organizations, and political commentators, as it raises questions about the integrity and autonomy of Ghana’s judicial system.