Former Chief Justice and current member of Ghana’s Council of State, Sophia Akuffo, has offered a message of support to her embattled successor, Gertrude Torkornoo, following the latter’s abrupt and widely debated removal from office.
Speaking in an interview with TV3 on Tuesday, Justice Akuffo described Torkornoo’s dismissal as “difficult and unfair,” and encouraged the former chief justice to find strength in her faith during what she characterized as a painful, but possibly purposeful, moment.
“She should take heart. God sees,” said Akuffo. “Sometimes when you go through certain things which you think have brought you to the end… that could be far from the truth.”
Madam Akuffo’s remarks come amid growing political tension surrounding Torkornoo’s removal—a decision that has sparked concern among legal observers and civil society groups over the implications for judicial independence in Ghana.
Suggesting that the setback might ultimately serve a larger purpose, Akuffo added, “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.”
Madam Akuffo emphasized the importance of resilience and perspective, particularly for those guided by faith. “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,” she said.
Madam Torkornoo’s removal has yet to be officially explained in detail by authorities, and public discourse continues to swirl around both the process and its broader implications for the rule of law.
Justice Akuffo’s comments mark one of the most high-profile reactions to date, signaling unease within the country’s legal establishment over what many see as a troubling precedent.
