A special constitutional committee investigating a petition to remove Ghana’s Chief Justice has submitted its first report to President John Mahama, in a development that could mark a pivotal moment for the country's judiciary.

Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, Chairman of the Article 146 Committee of Inquiry, delivered the sealed report during a brief ceremony at Jubilee House, Ghana’s presidential palace. The committee was tasked with examining three separate petitions filed earlier this year seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

The inquiry stems from constitutional provisions under Article 146 of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which governs the removal of superior court justices. The committee, inaugurated on May 15, 2025, held private hearings as stipulated by law.

The first petition was filed by businessman Daniel Ofori, who testified before the committee alongside 13 witnesses. Chief Justice Torkornoo mounted a vigorous defense, appearing in person and calling 12 witnesses, including several experts. Both parties were represented by teams of four lawyers, and the proceedings generated roughly 10,000 pages of documentation.

“After a critical and dispassionate examination of the evidence, we have, without fear or favor, arrived at a recommendation on the first petition,” said Justice Pwamang, emphasizing the committee’s impartiality and adherence to due process.

While the details of the recommendation remain sealed, the outcome now rests with President Mahama, who holds the constitutional authority to act on the committee’s findings.

The committee also disclosed that proceedings related to the second petition have been delayed at the request of both the petitioner and the Chief Justice. A third petition remains under review, with final reports on both expected in the coming months.

Justice Pwamang noted that although the proceedings were held behind closed doors, the process adhered strictly to constitutional transparency provisions. “This was not a secret process,” he said. “It was a constitutionally protected one.”

The case has attracted significant public interest, with analysts watching closely for signs of political or institutional pressure. Chief Justice Torkornoo, appointed in 2023, is the second woman to hold Ghana’s highest judicial office.