Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has resigned from the Council of State, bringing her tenure on Ghana’s top presidential advisory body to an end following months of public attention linked to the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
According to reports, Akuffo submitted her resignation in 2025 and has since ceased attending Council of State meetings. Neither she nor the Presidency has issued any official statement confirming or explaining the decision, leaving the circumstances surrounding her departure unclear.
Resignation amid silence
The Council of State is a constitutional body that advises the President on governance and national issues, comprising both elected and appointed members.
Akuffo’s exit comes after sustained public debate about her role in the process that led to the removal of Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. No announcement has yet been made regarding her replacement.
Role in Torkornoo proceedings
In April 2025, the Council of State voted on whether a prima facie case had been established against the then-Chief Justice. Out of 31 members, 30 voted in favour, while Akuffo abstained—the only member to do so.
Her abstention drew public interest due to her background as a former Chief Justice, although she did not publicly explain her position.
Testimony before Article 146 committee
Akuffo later appeared before the Article 146 committee set up to investigate the petition against Torkornoo. She testified in defence of the suspended Chief Justice at her request.
Her appearance was notable because she remained a serving Council of State member at the time, despite the body’s earlier involvement in the prima facie determination.
“Treason trial” comment sparks debate
In September 2025, Akuffo publicly criticised the process, arguing that Torkornoo was not given a fair hearing and describing the proceedings as resembling a “treason trial.”
She also questioned the severity of the allegations, stating they did not justify the removal of the head of the judiciary. Her comments triggered widespread discussion on judicial independence, due process, and confidentiality expectations for Council of State members.
