President John Dramani Mahama has officially removed the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkonoo, from office with immediate effect.
The decision, announced on Monday, September 1st, was taken in accordance with Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution after the President received the final report of a committee set up to investigate a petition against the Chief Justice.
The petition, filed by Mr. Daniel Ofori, alleged acts of stated misbehaviour on the part of Justice Torkonoo. Following an inquiry under Article 146(6), the committee concluded that the claims had merit. It subsequently recommended her removal from office.
By constitutional requirement, the President is bound to act on the committee’s findings. President Mahama therefore effected her removal, bringing an end to her tenure as the head of Ghana’s judiciary.
In a brief statement, the Presidency emphasized that the action was not a matter of discretion but rather a constitutional obligation.
The announcement was signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Member of Parliament and Spokesperson to the President, who also serves as Minister for Government Communications.
