The ECOWAS Court has dismissed all 7 allegations by Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo against Ghana over her suspension and removal from office as Chief Justice.
The Court has effectively upheld the processes activated by Ghana to remove her from office as same were “not unfairly and arbitrarily” done.
The three-member Court panel, while delivering the judgment on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, said the Committee set up by the President to investigate the petitions was lawful and she was afforded the opportunity to be heard.
The Court also said the prima facie determination by the President in consultation with the Council of State, which was a preliminary measure before she was written to, was a preliminary step and not an actual hearing.
On her demand for $10 million for damage of reputation, the Court also said there is no reparation decision for the Court to make for her.
“In light of the Court’s conclusions that Ghana has not violated any of the Applicant’s rights under the African Charter as alleged, the Court makes no decision on reparations,” the Court said on Torkornoo’s claim for US$10 million in damages.
On her claims of irregularities of the committee’s hearing on May 15, 2025, the Court said though she was not personally present, her counsel was present and his “unwillingness to participate” cannot be said to be a denial of representation and the committee afforded her a meaningful opportunity to be heard.
Story: Murtala Inusah
