Parliament Approves Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Chief Justice
Ghana’s Parliament has officially approved Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as the country’s new Chief Justice, following a decisive vote on Thursday, November 13, 2025. His appointment marks a significant leadership transition in the judiciary after the tenure of Justice Gertrude Torkonoo.
Damian Owusu 
Ghana’s Parliament has officially approved Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as the country’s new Chief Justice, following a decisive vote on Thursday, November 13, 2025. His appointment marks a significant leadership transition in the judiciary after the tenure of Justice Gertrude Torkonoo.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie was vetted by the Appointments Committee on Monday, November 10, 2025. The Committee recommended his approval by majority decision, citing his competence and deep knowledge of the law. During the parliamentary debate, 163 Members of Parliament voted in favor, while 69 opposed.
Minority Caucus: Opposed the approval, arguing that ongoing legal actions involving former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo should have delayed the process.
Majority Caucus: Defended the nomination, emphasizing Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s strong grasp of judicial ethics and his suitability to lead the judiciary.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s elevation to Chief Justice is expected to:
Reinforce judicial independence and stability.
Advance reforms in judicial administration and ethics.
Strengthen public confidence in the judiciary amid political debates.
As Chief Justice, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie will oversee critical reforms, including modernization of court processes through digitalization, enhancing transparency and accountability in the judiciary and balancing political pressures with the need to uphold the rule of law.
The approval of Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie reflects Ghana’s vibrant parliamentary democracy, where majority and minority positions often clash on constitutional matters. His tenure will be closely watched for how he navigates judicial reforms, independence, and public trust in one of the nation’s most vital institutions.
