Mahama suspends Ghana’s chief justice over misconduct allegations

Mahama suspends Ghana’s chief justice over misconduct allegations

 John Mahama, Ghana’s president, has suspended Gertrude
Torkornoo, the country’s chief justice, over allegations of misconduct.

 

In a statement on Tuesday, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the
presidential spokesperson, said the council of state took the decision after
three persons filed a petition against the chief judge.

 

Ofosu said allegations against Torkornoo include tampering
with court records and misuse of public funds.

 

“In consultation with the Council of State, it was
determined that a prima facie case has been established and that Torkornoo
would be suspended while she is investigated,” the statement reads.

 

The president has also given the suspended chief justice 10
days to respond to the allegations and has set up a five-member investigative
team to look into the issues.

 

The investigative committee is being led by Gabriel Pwamang,
a supreme court justice. The panel also includes former auditor-general, Daniel
Domelevo.

 

Torkornoo, 61, was appointed in June 2023, becoming Ghana’s
15th chief justice and the third woman to hold the post.

 

While past judicial leaders have left through retirement or
political upheaval, her suspension is the first time a sitting chief justice
has faced formal investigation through a constitutional process.

 

Mahama, who took office in January, has promised a crackdown
on graft in the country.

Source: Mahama suspends Ghana’s chief justice over misconduct allegations

 - NigerianEye
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