Ghanaian President John Mahama has suspended Supreme Court Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, marking a first in the country’s history.
An investigation has been launched into three petitions filed against her, alleging misconduct and incompetence.
The petitions, which have not been made public, call for her permanent removal from office.
Chief Justices in Ghana enjoy security of tenure, meaning they can only be removed on specific grounds.
Former Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame has criticized the suspension, calling it an attempt to undermine the judiciary. “It’s the biggest assault on the [judiciary] in the nation’s history,” he said.
Torkornoo will be invited to respond to the petitions before a final decision is reached on her removal from office.
