Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has formally taken office as Ghana’s newest Chief Justice after being sworn in by President John Dramani Mahama at an official ceremony held on Monday, November 17, 2025, at the Jubilee House. His induction marks a significant transition within the Judiciary, coming just days after Parliament overwhelmingly approved his nomination.
The appointment fills the leadership gap created after the dismissal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo. The swearing-in event drew an array of high-level officials, including the Vice President, senior parliamentary leaders, members of the Council of State, the Attorney-General, and the entire bench of Supreme Court Justices. Family members and close associates of the newly appointed Chief Justice were also present.
President Mahama described Justice Baffoe-Bonnie as a “jurist of impeccable integrity,” commending his decades-long service to Ghana’s legal system. He urged the new head of the Judiciary to prioritise reforms that would strengthen judicial independence, reduce delays in the justice delivery chain, and restore greater public confidence in the courts.
After taking the Oath of Office, Oath of Allegiance, and the Judicial Oath, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie outlined a reform-driven agenda aimed at modernising court operations. His vision includes expanding digital justice systems, increasing transparency in case management, and improving the welfare and training of judicial personnel.
A Career Marked by Excellence
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s elevation to the highest judicial office crowns more than three decades of service at various levels of Ghana’s courts. A graduate of the University of Ghana School of Law, he later earned an LL.M. in Constitutional Theory from Oxford University, solidifying his reputation as both a legal academic and a practitioner.
Key Milestones in His Judicial Journey:
1993: Appointed to the High Court, where he delivered several landmark rulings in commercial and administrative law.
2005: Elevated to the Court of Appeal, gaining recognition for his analytical approach and strict adherence to constitutional principles.
2012: Appointed a Justice of the Supreme Court, contributing 87 majority opinions—many of which shaped national understanding of electoral jurisprudence, land rights and constitutional interpretation.
Beyond his courtroom contributions, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie has lectured at various law faculties, mentored young lawyers, and served on judicial reform committees that advised on case-management systems and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
As he begins his tenure, expectations are high. Observers anticipate that his blend of academic insight and practical judicial experience will help stabilise the Judiciary and advance long-standing reforms needed to ensure fairness, efficiency, and accessibility in Ghana’s justice system.
Source:Africa Publicity
