Former Chief Justice, Sophia Akuffo
Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has criticised the process that led to the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, describing it as a “rigmarole” and an ordeal no judge should endure.
In an exclusive interview with TV3 on September 2, 2025, Akuffo, who is also a member of the Council of State, expressed dismay over how the proceedings were handled.
Kwesi Pratt reacts to President Mahama’s removal of CJ Torkornoo
“I pray to God that no Chief Justice, no judge should go through this rigmarole again,” she said.
She added that Torkornoo was denied a fair hearing in a process that “was handled as though it were a treason trial.”
The dismissal of Justice Torkornoo was carried out under Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution following recommendations from a committee established to investigate petitions filed against her.
“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 Torkornoo, from office with immediate effect,” a statement read.
The decision followed findings by the five-member Pwamang Committee, which investigated multiple petitions and concluded there were grounds of stated misbehaviour under Article 146(1).
Justice Torkornoo had earlier been suspended in April 2025 after President Mahama, in consultation with the Council of State, determined there was a prima facie case against her based on three separate petitions.
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