Former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has suffered a major setback after the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice dismissed all seven claims she filed against the Republic of Ghana regarding her suspension and removal from office.
The decision was disclosed by Deputy Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Justice Srem-Sai, in a Facebook post on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.
Justice Torkornoo had taken her case to the regional court, arguing that actions taken against her violated rights guaranteed under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. She sought legal redress and demanded compensation amounting to US$10 million.
However, according to Justice Srem-Sai, the ECOWAS Court found no evidence that Ghana had violated any of the rights cited in the application and subsequently dismissed all the claims brought before it.
The Deputy Attorney-General revealed that the court also rejected the former Chief Justice’s request for financial compensation. Quoting portions of the judgment, he noted that the court declined to consider reparations after determining that no rights violations had occurred.
“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 judgment stated.
The ruling effectively brings to a close the legal challenge pursued by Justice Torkornoo at the ECOWAS Court.
The case had attracted significant public interest due to the high-profile nature of the parties involved and its implications for judicial independence and constitutional governance in Ghana. Prior to the final ruling, the ECOWAS Court had dealt with several preliminary objections and procedural applications connected to the matter.
Following the judgment, Justice Srem-Sai praised the legal team that represented the Republic of Ghana before the regional court.
He commended the state attorneys and legal officers who worked on the case, describing their efforts as instrumental in securing a favourable outcome for the country.
According to him, the victory was the result of extensive legal research, careful preparation and a strong defence mounted on behalf of the state.
“The dedication and professionalism demonstrated by the legal team played a crucial role in the successful defence of Ghana’s position before the court,” he indicated.
The ruling is expected to generate further discussion within legal and political circles, particularly regarding the broader issues surrounding the former Chief Justice’s removal and the constitutional processes involved.
For now, the ECOWAS Court’s decision marks a significant legal victory for the Republic of Ghana, while ending Justice Torkornoo’s pursuit of relief and compensation at the regional judicial body.
