Today, May 15, the five-member committee probing misconduct allegations against Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo will begin its public hearings.

President John Mahama set up the committee after confirming a prima facie case. He made the decision in consultation with the Council of State, in line with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution.

Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang of the Supreme Court leads the committee. The other members include Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Professor James Sefah Dzisah from the University of Ghana.

The committee plans to meet three times a week. Once its work is complete, it will submit findings and recommendations directly to the President.

Chief Justice Torkornoo faces five different misconduct petitions. In response, President Mahama suspended her from office after consulting the Council of State. He tasked the committee with carrying out a full and impartial investigation.

The Chief Justice investigation has drawn national attention. Many view it as a major test of judicial accountability and public trust in Ghana’s legal system.