PRESIDENT MAHAMA NOMINATES JUSTICE PAUL BAFFOE-BONNIE AS NEXT CHIEF JUSTICE

President John Dramani Mahama has officially forwarded the nomination of Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie to the Council of State, seeking advice on his appointment as the substantive Chief Justice of Ghana. The decision is grounded in Article 144(1) of the 1992 Constitution.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie has been serving as Acting Chief Justice since April 22, 2025, following the suspension of Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo. The president’s statement, issued through his spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, commended Baffoe-Bonnie’s long service on the Bench, including his tenure in the High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court.

According to the Presidency, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s integrity, impartiality, and dedication to upholding Ghanaian jurisprudence make him well-suited for the top judicial office. “His wealth of experience and long service on the Bench render him eminently qualified for the high office of Chief Justice,” the statement said.

The move comes after Justice Torkornoo was removed from office on September 1, 2025, on grounds of stated misbehaviour, following recommendations from a constitutional inquiry committee under Article 146 of the Constitution.

If confirmed by the Council of State and meeting constitutional requirements, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie will become the substantive Chief Justice, undertaking responsibilities that include overseeing the judiciary’s operations and guaranteeing the administration of justice.