Parliament Approves Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Ghana’s New Chief Justice

Parliament has approved Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as the next Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana, marking a significant transition in the leadership of the judiciary.

The approval came on Thursday, November 13, 2025, after a headcount in which the Majority secured 163 votes against the Minority’s 69.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, who has served on the Supreme Court since 2012, was nominated by President John Dramani Mahama to succeed Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

Her removal followed the recommendations of a Committee set up under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution to investigate a petition by Citizen Daniel Ofori.

The Committee found that allegations of stated misbehaviour had been substantiated, paving the way for her dismissal under Article 146(9).

During his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie impressed lawmakers with his openness and depth of knowledge.

He addressed issues ranging from judicial reform and case management to safeguarding judicial independence.

He pledged to enhance efficiency across the courts, reinforce ethical conduct, and accelerate the delivery of justice.

He also underscored the importance of expanding digitisation in the judicial system to promote transparency and rebuild public confidence.

Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga welcomed the appointment, praising Justice Baffoe-Bonnie as “a seasoned jurist of integrity and vision,” whose extensive experience and commitment to the rule of law make him well-suited to lead the judiciary.

Having served on the bench for over 30 years—rising through the High Court and Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie is expected to be sworn in soon by President Mahama at the Jubilee House.

His appointment is widely seen as a step toward strengthening judicial accountability, transparency, and excellence as Ghana charts a new course for its justice system.

Source: Felix Nyaaba/expressnewsghana.com