Ghana's President Suspends Supreme Court Chief Justice Amid Misconduct Investigation

Ghana's President John Mahama has suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo following three petitions alleging tampering with court records and misuse of public funds, announcing the move after the Council of State found a prima facie case for investigation. A five-member committee, including Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang and former auditor-general Daniel Domelevo, will probe the allegations, though specifics have not been made public. This marks the first time a sitting chief justice in Ghana faces formal investigation through a constitutional process. While Mahama frames the suspension as part of his anti-corruption agenda, legal experts and former officials warn it could harm Ghana’s international reputation, investor confidence, and public trust in the judiciary. Some argue the president is constitutionally obligated to act, but emphasize the manner and optics of the process are critical to avoid perceptions of political interference or instability. The case has triggered debate over judicial independence and the balance of powers in Ghana’s democracy.