Committee Probing Chief Justice Torkornoo’s Removal Begins In-Camera Hearings

Committee Probing Chief Justice Torkornoo’s Removal Begins In-Camera Hearings

By  clement nhyira addai Top Knowledge TV | May 15, 2025

The five-member committee set up to investigate petitions for the removal of Ghana’s Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, has officially begun its work today with closed-door (in-camera) hearings in Accra.

This marks a critical moment in Ghana’s judicial history as the proceedings, conducted under the provisions of Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution, delve into the yet-undisclosed allegations presented by multiple petitioners seeking her removal from office.

A Constitutional Mandate in Motion

The committee, chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang, was appointed by President John Dramani Mahama following the establishment of a prima facie case after consultations with the Council of State. The Constitution mandates that proceedings of this nature must be held in-camera to preserve the confidentiality, integrity, and dignity of the process.

Justice Torkornoo was suspended on April 22, 2025, in accordance with Article 146(10), which allows the President to suspend a high-ranking judicial officer once a committee is formed to investigate misconduct. Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, the most senior member of the Supreme Court, has since been appointed Acting Chief Justice in her stead.

The Issues at Stake

While the details of the petitions remain confidential, the situation has sparked a national conversation around judicial accountability, independence, and the need for constitutional reform. Many legal analysts and political commentators have expressed concerns over the opacity of the removal process and the potential political implications.

Former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, has publicly criticized the current process as “ridiculous,” arguing that the constitutional guidelines for removing a Chief Justice are outdated and in urgent need of review. “A more transparent and structured process is essential to protect both the dignity of the office and the rights of the individual,” he said.

Due Process and Public Confidence

Despite the secrecy of the hearings, the committee is expected to sit thrice weekly and conclude its proceedings in a timely manner. Its final report, containing findings and recommendations, will be submitted to the President, who will then determine the way forward.

Legal experts caution that while public opinion may be divided, the nation must trust in the constitutionally established process and allow the committee to work without interference. Civil society organizations have also called for calm and respect for the rule of law as the investigation unfolds.

Chief Justice Torkornoo, who was appointed in June 2023 as Ghana’s third female Chief Justice, has had a distinguished legal career. Her suspension has raised eyebrows, but many in the legal fraternity urge Ghanaians not to rush to conclusions until the facts are fully examined and disclosed through proper legal channels.

What Lies Ahead

The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications—not only for Justice Torkornoo’s future but also for the public’s trust in the judiciary and the constitutional mechanisms that govern judicial accountability.

In the weeks ahead, the nation watches closely as one of the highest judicial offices in the land undergoes scrutiny, hoping for a fair and just resolution in line with democratic principles.