Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has reportedly resigned from Ghana’s Council of State, according to sources familiar with the matter, although neither the Council nor the Office of the President has officially confirmed the development.
Information available indicates that Justice Akuffo submitted her resignation towards the end of 2025 after ceasing to participate in meetings of the constitutional advisory body. The reasons for her decision have not been publicly disclosed.
However, sources suggest her withdrawal from the Council’s activities followed deliberations surrounding the removal process involving former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, a matter that attracted significant national attention.
Justice Akuffo’s position during the Council’s consideration of the case had already drawn interest after she reportedly became the only member to abstain from voting on whether a prima facie case had been established against Justice Torkornoo.
In April 2025, 30 of the Council’s 31 members voted in favour of establishing a prima facie case, while Justice Akuffo abstained without offering a public explanation for her decision.
The former Chief Justice, who served as Ghana’s head of the Judiciary from 2017 to 2020, has been widely respected for her legal expertise and distinguished public service. Her reported resignation marks the departure of one of the Council’s most prominent members.
The Council of State, established under the 1992 Constitution, serves as an advisory body to the President on matters of governance, public administration and national policy. It is made up of elected and appointed members representing various regions and sectors of the country.
While speculation continues over the motivations behind Justice Akuffo’s resignation, there has been no official statement from her office explaining the decision. Similarly, the Council of State and the Presidency are yet to issue formal communication confirming her exit or outlining any plans for a replacement.
