Aspiring National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), John Boadu, has criticised comments made by Chief Justice nominee, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, describing them as “inappropriate” and unbecoming of someone being considered for Ghana’s highest judicial office.
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme, Mr. Boadu said the nominee’s remarks regarding the 70-year jail term handed to notorious armed robber Ataa Ayi were unfortunate and raised questions about his impartiality in handling future cases.
“What the Chief Justice nominee said was absolutely wrong. Such statements from someone expected to uphold justice are troubling,” Mr. Boadu stated.
He questioned whether Justice Baffoe-Bonnie could remain fair and neutral in cases involving his personal or political interests.
“If a case that affects his personal interest comes before him, can we expect a fair trial?” he asked.
Mr. Boadu further urged Parliament to treat the matter with seriousness, stressing that lawmakers have a constitutional responsibility to protect citizens’ liberties and uphold the independence of the judiciary.
“The parliamentarians who vetted him have an honourable duty to protect the liberty of our people. This should not be about personal interest, it affects the credibility of the entire government. If my case goes before him, I would be fearful, because if our political views do not align, there is a chance he might act based on his own interests,” he added.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, November 10, 2025, defended the sentence given to Ataa Ayi, explaining that his decision was based on sound legal principles and the duty to ensure public safety.
The comments, however, have sparked debate about judicial discretion, the appropriateness of sentencing in high-profile criminal cases, and the broader expectations of impartiality for Ghana’s next Chief Justice.
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