‘Take heart, look to God’ – Sophia Akuffo to former CJ Torkornoo

Former Chief Justice and Council of State member, Justice Sophia Akuffo, has offered words of encouragement to Justice Gertrude Torkornoo following her removal from office.

In an interview with TV3 on Tuesday, September 2, Justice Akuffo described Torkornoo’s recent experience as a challenging and unfair ordeal, urging her to remain resilient.

“She should take heart. That God sees, and sometimes when you go through certain things which you think have brought you to the end or to your knees or something like that, that could be far from the truth,” she said.

Justice Akuffo emphasized that the removal could be part of a greater plan, advising her colleague to trust in divine guidance.

“There could be bigger, better, and greater needs that the Lord has in store. That is what I will tell her, and that is what I will send to her as a text message,” she added.

She also reminded Torkornoo and the public that faith can help navigate difficult times. “When you are a believer, things happen today, yes, they have happened, so look to God and move on, and you will allow God to manage the rest,” Akuffo said.

According to Justice Akuffo, such experiences, while painful, can serve as lessons for others in public service. “In positions of responsibility, there will always be moments that test your patience, courage, and trust in God. This is a moment to reflect, stay steadfast, and allow faith to guide you forward,” she noted.

She concluded by stressing the importance of encouragement and support among colleagues and citizens. “It is important to send messages of encouragement, remind each other of God’s plans, and uplift those who are going through challenging phases,” Justice Akuffo said.

Background

President John Dramani Mahama has, in accordance with Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution, removed the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkonoo, from office with immediate effect.

This follows receipt of the report of the Committee constituted under Article 146(6) to inquire into a petition submitted by a Ghanaian citizen, Mr Daniel Ofori. After considering the petition and the evidence, the Committee found that the grounds of stated misbehaviour under Article 146(1) had been established and recommended her removal from office.

Under Article 146(9), the President is required to act in accordance with the committee’s recommendation.