Chief Justice drags Ghana to ECOWAS Court over “Unlawful” Suspension

In a dramatic twist to Ghana’s ongoing judicial crisis, Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has filed a fresh case against the state at the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice in Abuja, Nigeria, arguing that her suspension amounts to an unconstitutional removal from office.

The case, filed on July 4, 2025, is the latest legal salvo from Her Ladyship, who is already battling similar claims in Ghana’s Supreme Court and High Court. The Chief Justice contends that the actions taken against her constitute grave human rights violations, further eroding Ghana’s fragile judicial independence.

According to Deputy Attorney General Justice Srem Sai, who confirmed the development in a social media post, Justice Torkornoo asserts that her suspension has effectively stripped her of her official capacity without due process or a final determination.

“She argues that this has impaired her constitutional right to function and serve in a position she was lawfully appointed to,” Sai stated.

Justice Torkornoo’s suspension stems from a series of explosive allegations, including abuse of office, administrative interference, and questionable procurement decisions linked to the judiciary’s modernisation projects. She is accused of single-handedly influencing the awarding of contracts for court automation and security upgrades, allegedly bypassing established procurement protocols and sidelining key oversight bodies.

Critics also point to her alleged meddling in high-profile cases to protect certain political and business interests, raising deep concerns about judicial impartiality under her leadership.

These accusations triggered calls for her removal and led to her suspension pending investigations, an action she describes as a “de facto removal” carried out in violation of her constitutional protections.

Her decision to seek international redress could further strain Ghana’s image as a beacon of democracy and rule of law in the sub-region.

The ECOWAS court, known for upholding individual human rights across West Africa, is expected to rule on whether Ghana’s actions violated her right to fair administrative justice and due process.

As the legal battle intensifies, it remains to be seen whether the Chief Justice can reclaim her office or if this marks the final chapter of her controversial tenure at the apex of Ghana’s judiciary.

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