Parliament confirms Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as new Chief Justice

Parliament has approved the nomination of Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as the new Chief Justice of Ghana, following a heated vetting and debate on the Appointments Committee’s report.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie was vetted on Monday, November 10, in a session marked by a dramatic walkout from Minority Members of Parliament, who rejected his nomination. The Minority cited ongoing court cases challenging the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo as grounds for their boycott, describing the process as unconstitutional and politically motivated.

Despite their objections, the Majority proceeded with the approval process. On Thursday, November 13, Parliament adopted the Appointments Committee’s report by majority decision, officially endorsing Justice Baffoe-Bonnie as Ghana’s next Chief Justice.

Presenting the Committee’s report, the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor, said:

“Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has demonstrated exceptional competence and integrity, making him deserving of the position.”

The Minority, however, rejected the voice vote and demanded a headcount, which concluded with 169 members in the Majority and 63 in the Minority.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie has served on the Supreme Court since 2008, making him one of Ghana’s longest-serving justices. He has contributed to several landmark rulings and is expected to bring continuity and stability to the judiciary at a time when the nation faces key legal and constitutional challenges.

He is expected to be sworn into office by President John Dramani Mahama in the coming days at the Jubilee House.

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