Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo is asking the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice to compel the Republic of Ghana to pay her $10 million in compensation for what she describes as moral and reputational harm resulting from her suspension from office.
Justice Torkornoo argues that her suspension violates her right to a fair hearing, as enshrined in the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
She was suspended by President John Dramani Mahama on April 22, 2025, following consultations with the Council of State, which concluded that a prima facie case had been established. A five-member investigative committee, chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang, was subsequently formed to look into the allegations against her.
Ongoing Legal Battles
The suspension has sparked a series of legal challenges. More than five lawsuits have been filed at the Supreme Court by various individuals seeking to halt the work of the investigative committee. Justice Torkornoo also petitioned the Supreme Court directly, arguing that the committee’s procedures had infringed upon her rights.
She alleged that she was subjected to invasive searches prior to hearings and was denied access to her electronic devices. After the Supreme Court declined to intervene, she escalated the matter to the High Court, where the case remains pending.
Now, her legal team has turned to the ECOWAS Court, seeking a declaration that the suspension violates her human rights and that the investigative panel lacks the independence required for such proceedings.
The team is requesting three key remedies:
- A declaration that her suspension is unlawful,
- An order directing the government to reinstate her as Chief Justice, and
- An award of $10 million in compensation for moral and reputational damage.
The outcome of the ECOWAS Court case could have significant implications for judicial independence and executive oversight in Ghana.
