Ghana AG Defends Torkornoo’s Suspension From Global Criticism

Ghana’s Attorney-General, Hon. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, officially responded to international legal bodies. The joint statement from the Bar Council of England and Wales and the Commonwealth Lawyers Association criticized the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude A.E.S. Torkornoo. The response, dated August 15, 2025, defends the process as entirely constitutional and transparent.

This rare international legal dispute concerns the suspension of a sitting Chief Justice. According to the Attorney-General, the process began with three separate petitions. These petitions, filed by citizens, alleged misconduct and incompetence. The President, acting under Article 146(6) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, then referred these petitions to the Council of State. After a preliminary review, the Council of State found a prima facie case against Her Ladyship. Consequently, an inquiry committee was established.

Justice Torkornoo’s suspension, effective since April 2025, follows a structured legal mechanism. The press release confirms that the inquiry committee’s work is ongoing. It also states the President will adhere to its final report. Furthermore, the Attorney-General’s office stressed that Ghana’s constitutional framework provides robust safeguards for judicial independence. The suspension process, therefore, does not represent a breakdown of these principles.

The Attorney-General’s response directly refutes the claim of undermined judicial independence. He cites a 2015 Supreme Court ruling to show precedent. Historically, only two chief justices have faced similar probes. This underscores the political sensitivity of the matter. However, the Attorney-General maintains that all legal procedures have been followed faithfully. The government believes Justice Torkornoo’s suspension remains within the bounds of the law.

The Attorney-General firmly believes the inquiry committee is the proper body to handle such matters. The government rejects outside suggestions that would interfere with this constitutional process.

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