The ECOWAS Community Court of Justice has dismissed all claims brought by former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo against the Republic of Ghana over her suspension and removal from office.
The ruling was disclosed by Deputy Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Justice Srem-Sai, who announced that the regional court rejected all seven reliefs sought by Justice Torkornoo in her application.
The former Chief Justice had petitioned the ECOWAS Court, arguing that her suspension and subsequent removal violated her rights under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. She also sought damages amounting to US$10 million.
However, according to Justice Srem-Sai, the court found that Ghana had not violated any of the rights cited in the application and therefore dismissed the claims in their entirety.
Quoting portions of the judgment in a Facebook post on Wednesday, June 24, the Deputy Attorney-General stated that the court declined to award any compensation to the former Chief Justice.
“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,” he quoted from the ruling.
The decision effectively ends Justice Torkornoo’s legal challenge before the ECOWAS Court concerning her removal from office.
Following the verdict, Justice Srem-Sai praised the legal team that represented Ghana in the matter. He commended the state attorneys involved for their dedication, extensive research and thorough preparation, noting that their efforts played a key role in securing the favourable outcome for the Republic.
