Parliament has approved the nomination of Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as the new Chief Justice of Ghana, following an intense vetting process and a divisive debate on the Appointments Committee’s report.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s vetting, held on Monday, November 10, 2025, was marred by a dramatic walkout by Minority Members of Parliament, who rejected his nomination. The Minority cited ongoing legal challenges to the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, describing the process as unconstitutional and politically driven.
Despite the boycott, the Majority Caucus proceeded with the approval process. On Thursday, November 13, Parliament adopted the Appointments Committee’s report by a majority decision, confirming Justice Baffoe-Bonnie as Ghana’s next Chief Justice.
Presenting the Committee’s report, First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor commended Justice Baffoe-Bonnie for his competence, integrity, and extensive judicial experience, qualities he said made the nominee well-suited for the role.
The Minority, however, opposed the approval and called for a headcount vote, which ended with the Majority securing 169 votes against the Minority’s 63 votes.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, who has served on the Supreme Court since 2008, is one of Ghana’s longest-serving justices and has been instrumental in delivering several landmark rulings.
His appointment is expected to bring continuity and stability to the judiciary at a time when Ghana faces crucial constitutional and governance challenges.
He will be sworn into office by President John Dramani Mahama in the coming days at the Jubilee House.
