Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo Steps Down From Council of State

Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has officially stepped down from her position on Ghana's Council of State following President John Dramani Mahama's acceptance of her resignation. The Government Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, announced the development on Monday, 15 June, confirming that the resignation process had been finalised and that efforts are underway to appoint a successor in line with constitutional procedures.

Justice Akuffo submitted her resignation letter to the President in September 2025 without providing specific reasons for her decision. However, the acceptance process was temporarily delayed when members of the Council of State requested time to engage with her to understand whether there were grievances that could be addressed. After these consultations, the Council advised that her resignation be accepted, leading to the President's formal approval.

Akuffo, who served as Chief Justice from 2017 until her retirement in 2020, was appointed to the Council of State as one of several eminent persons selected to advise the President on matters of governance and national development. Her departure marks the first significant exit from the current Council under President Mahama's administration.

The vacancy created by her resignation must be filled through the legally prescribed constitutional process. Mr Kwakye Ofosu stated that the government has already begun the formal appointment procedures and expects to announce a replacement within the coming weeks. The Council of State plays a crucial advisory role in assisting the President with constitutional matters, public policy and governance.