Ghanaian President John Mahama on Tuesday announced the suspension of the country’s Supreme Court judge while she is investigated for misconduct.
The case against Supreme Court Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Torkornoo followed three distinct petitions calling for her dismissal. Tampering with court records and misappropriation of public monies are among the allegations levelled against her.
A spokeswoman for President John Mahama said in a statement that he had, “in consultation with the Council of State, determined that a prima facie case has been established” and that Torkornoo would be suspended until the investigation was conducted.
The specifics of the claims that the five-member inquiry committee will look into have not been made public.
Mahama, who was sworn into office in January, has promised to crack down on corruption in the West African nation.
Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang leads the inquiry committee. Daniel Domelevo, the former auditor general, also serves on the panel.
Torkornoo, 61, was appointed Chief Justice of Ghana in June 2023, becoming the country’s 15th and third woman to hold the position.
While previous judicial chiefs have resigned due to retirement or political turmoil, her suspension marks the first time a serving chief judge has faced a formal examination under the Constitution.
