Justice Torkonoo, who succeeded Justice Kwasi Anin-Yeboah, was sworn in as Ghana’s 15th Chief Justice and the third woman to hold the position on 12th June 2023 by former President Akufo-Addo.

On 17th December 2024, legal scholar Professor Kwaku Asare invoked Article 146(1) of the Constitution, demanding the Chief Justice’s removal over alleged misconduct and incompetence.

He cited, among other concerns, her controversial request for the appointment of five new Supreme Court justices, arguing that it breached constitutional provisions.

However, former President Akufo-Addo dismissed the petition on 6th January 2025 after consulting the Council of State, concluding that it lacked a prima facie case.

Renowned economist and former Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Professor Stephen Adei, has cautioned President Mahama against removing the Chief Justice and the Electoral Commission Chairperson.

He warned that such a move, if politically motivated, could undermine Ghana’s democratic institutions and set a troubling precedent for future administrations.