Suspended Chief Justice of Ghana, Gertrude Torkornoo, has petitioned the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice, demanding $10 million in compensation for what she describes as moral and reputational damage resulting from her suspension.
Justice Torkornoo argues that her suspension violated her right to a fair hearing, as enshrined in the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. She was suspended from office by President John Dramani Mahama on April 22, 2025, following a consultation with the Council of State, which concluded that a prima facie case existed, warranting a formal investigation.
A five-member committee, chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang, was subsequently established to probe the allegations against her.
Legal Challenges
Her suspension has sparked a wave of legal battles. Over five separate legal actions have been filed at the Supreme Court by concerned citizens, all seeking to halt the work of the investigative committee. Chief Justice Torkornoo herself also turned to the Supreme Court, arguing that the committee’s procedures infringed on her rights.
She claims she was subjected to invasive searches and denied access to her electronic devices during the proceedings. After the Supreme Court declined to halt the inquiry, she escalated the matter to the High Court, where the case remains pending.
Petition to ECOWAS Court
Now, the Chief Justice’s legal team has taken the case to the ECOWAS Court, seeking the following:
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A declaration that her suspension violates her fundamental human rights
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A ruling that the investigative panel was not constituted in a manner that guarantees its independence
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An order compelling the Government of Ghana to lift her suspension and reinstate her
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An award of $10 million in damages for the harm caused to her dignity and reputation
Justice Torkornoo’s petition adds an international dimension to what has become a highly contentious legal and political issue in Ghana, raising broader questions about judicial independence, due process, and human rights.
