I’ll uphold the Judiciary’s independence – President Mahama says as He swears in Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Chief Justice
President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding the independence of Ghana’s judiciary, describing it as a constitutional necessity and a protection for all citizens, including the President.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Chief Justice on Monday, November 17, 2025, at Jubilee House in Accra, President Mahama stressed the importance of maintaining a delicate balance of power among the executive, legislature, and judiciary.
He noted that while each branch of government must operate independently, they must also collaborate for the common good.
“The strength of our democracy depends on the delicate yet essential balance of powers among the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary. Today as President, I pledge my unwavering commitment to the independence of the judiciary,” he said.
President Mahama emphasised that judicial independence is not a failure of the courts but a constitutional safeguard. He called for the protection of the courts’ financial, institutional, and administrative autonomy, adding that court decisions, whether popular or unpopular, must be respected and enforced as the bedrock of the rule of law.
The President expressed confidence in the leadership of Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, saying the judiciary will continue to uphold its constitutional mandate without fear or favour.
President John Dramani Mahama has officially sworn in Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as the new Chief Justice of Ghana.
The ceremony, held at the Jubilee House in Accra on Monday, November 17, 2025, follows Parliament’s approval of his nomination earlier this month.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie was nominated by President Mahama on September 23, 2025, in recognition of his extensive experience and long service across the High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court.
He has been serving as Acting Chief Justice since April 22, 2025, after the suspension and eventual dismissal of Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
Prior to his confirmation, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie appeared before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on November 10, where he pledged open-door, bipartisan leadership and emphasised his commitment to strengthening judicial independence and improving access to justice.
Parliament confirmed his appointment on November 13 with 163 votes in favour and 69 against, clearing the way for today’s official swearing-in ceremony.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie now assumes full responsibilities as Chief Justice, tasked with leading Ghana’s judiciary and upholding the rule of law.
