Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo resigns from Council of State

Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has ceased to be a member of Ghana's Council of State after President John Dramani Mahama formally accepted her resignation, ending months of consultations over her decision.

The announcement was made on Monday by Government Communications Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who said the process had now been concluded and that arrangements were underway to appoint a replacement in line with constitutional requirements.

Mr Kwakye Ofosu said Justice Akuffo submitted a letter to the President in September 2025 expressing her intention to step down from the advisory body.

He said no reason was provided for her resignation. "Justice Sophia A.B. Akuffo submitted a letter indicating her desire to resign. She did not disclose the reason for wanting to resign," he told journalists.

According to the minister, the President initially delayed formally accepting the resignation following a request from members of the Council of State, who sought time to engage with Justice Akuffo and determine whether any concerns could be addressed.

The Council later informed the President that its discussions with the former Chief Justice had not changed her position and advised that the resignation be accepted.

"As far as they were concerned, the resignation could be accepted. The President has formally accepted her resignation, and she is no longer a member of the Council of State," Mr Kwakye Ofosu said.

Justice Akuffo served as Chief Justice from 2017 until her retirement in 2020. She was subsequently appointed to the Council of State as one of the distinguished individuals selected by the President to provide advice on governance and national affairs.

Her departure leaves a vacancy on the constitutional advisory body, which assists the President in carrying out duties under Ghana's 1992 Constitution.

Mr Kwakye Ofosu said the process of selecting a replacement had already begun. "The law is clear on the procedures required to replace her, and that process is ongoing. In due course, a replacement will be announced," he said.

Justice Akuffo's exit marks the first high-profile departure from the current Council of State, which continues to play a key advisory role on governance, public policy and constitutional matters.