Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has said the allegations that led to the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo were not strong enough to justify her dismissal by President John Dramani Mahama.
Madam Sophia Akuffo, who also serves on the Council of State, criticised the processes that culminated in Justice Torkornoo’s removal.
She described the procedure as a “rigmarole,” arguing that it was undeserving of any judge, let alone a Chief Justice.
In a yet-to-be-aired exclusive interview with TV3 on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, Madam Sophia Akuffo stated:
“The [allegations] lack the gravity that will lead to a grave outcome such as the removal of the head of an institution of justice.”
President Mahama, on Monday, September 1, 2025, removed Justice Torkornoo in accordance with Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution.
A statement from the Presidency said the decision followed a recommendation by a committee set up under Article 146(6) to investigate a petition filed by a citizen, Mr. Daniel Ofori. The removal took immediate effect.
The statement, signed by the Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, noted that the President was constitutionally bound to act in line with the committee’s recommendation.
“Handled like a treason trial” – Sophia Akuffo criticises Torkornoo’s removal
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