Accra: Mr. Alfred Tuah-Yeboah, a former Deputy Attorney-General, has expressed concerns that the recent removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo could pave the way for politically motivated attacks on the judiciary. He emphasized that the decision carries significant implications for the future.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Tuah-Yeboah was responding to President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to remove Justice Sackey Torkornoo from her position. The President’s action, taken on September 1, 2025, was in line with Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution after receiving a report from a Committee established under Article 146(6). This Committee was tasked with investigating a petition filed by Ghanaian citizen Mr. Daniel Ofori, which alleged misbehavior on the part of the Chief Justice.
A statement from Accra, signed by Mr. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President, indicated that the Committee found grounds of stated misbehavior under Article 146(1) and recommended the Chief Justice’s removal. The President was constitutionally obligated to follow the Committee’s recommendation.
Mr. Tuah-Yeboah underscored the potential for future Chief Justices to face similar challenges, stating that “the possibility of flimsy petitions being used to remove you is very high.” He suggested that the removal might fulfill a campaign promise made by the National Democratic Congress, illustrating a political motive behind the action.
Mr. Kwaku Ansa-Asare, a former Director of the Ghana School of Law, concurred with the Committee’s recommendation and noted that the President had no choice but to comply with the constitutional directive. He cautioned against interpreting the President’s swift action as evidence of a predetermined decision, emphasizing that the legal process was followed.
The removal has sparked debate over the potential influence of political agendas on the judiciary, with stakeholders highlighting the need to preserve the independence and integrity of the office of the Chief Justice.