Chief Justice Suspension Won’t Disrupt Court Cases – Prof. Appiagyei-Atua
Legal Expert Highlights Constitutional Safeguards to Ensure Uninterrupted Judicial Operations
- Prof. Appiagyei-Atua assures that the judicial system will operate smoothly despite the suspension of Chief Justice Torkornoo
- The 1992 Constitution allows for a senior judge to temporarily take over
- Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, the senior-most Supreme Court judge, is now serving as Acting Chief Justice
Kwadwo Appiagyei-Atua, Associate Professor at the University of Ghana School of Law, has reassured the public that the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo will not cause any disruption to Ghana’s judicial system.
His comments come after President John Dramani Mahama’s decision on April 22, 2025, to suspend the Chief Justice following the establishment of a prima facie case based on three petitions seeking her removal from office.
In an interview with Eyewitness News, Prof. Appiagyei-Atua emphasized that the 1992 Constitution provides adequate provisions to ensure that judicial operations continue smoothly even in the absence of the Chief Justice.
He explained, “The Constitution allows for a senior judge to act in the role of Chief Justice during such times. As a result, the most senior Supreme Court judge will temporarily take over until the issue is resolved.”
Addressing concerns about the fate of cases previously overseen by the suspended Chief Justice, Prof. Appiagyei-Atua assured that they will proceed under the leadership of the acting Chief Justice.
Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, the most senior Supreme Court judge, has stepped in as Acting Chief Justice in line with Article 144(6) of the Constitution.
While the suspension of Justice Torkornoo has generated public debate, experts like Prof. Appiagyei-Atua believe that the integrity and functionality of the judiciary remain intact.
