- Parliament approved Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as the new Chief Justice
- Minority MPs walked out during vetting, citing ongoing legal cases and political bias
- Majority pushed the approval, with 169 votes in favor and 63 against
Parliament has confirmed Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Ghana’s new Chief Justice, following a contentious vetting process and debate over the Appointments Committee’s report.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s vetting on Monday, November 10, saw a dramatic walkout by Minority MPs, who opposed his nomination. The Minority cited ongoing court cases related to the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, calling the process unconstitutional and politically motivated.
Despite these objections, the Majority moved forward, and on Thursday, November 13, Parliament approved the Appointments Committee’s report by a majority vote, officially endorsing Justice Baffoe-Bonnie as the next Chief Justice.
Presenting the report, First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor praised Justice Baffoe-Bonnie for his competence and integrity, describing him as highly deserving of the position. The Minority, however, rejected the voice vote and requested a headcount, which recorded 169 for the Majority and 63 for the Minority.
A Supreme Court justice since 2008, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie is one of Ghana’s longest-serving justices and has played a key role in several landmark rulings. His appointment is expected to ensure continuity and stability in the judiciary amid ongoing legal and constitutional challenges.
He is set to be sworn in by President John Dramani Mahama at the Jubilee House in the coming days.
