Ghana witnessed a historic moment as President John Mahama officially swore in Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as the country’s new Chief Justice.
The ceremony, covered live by JoyNews on TV, featured a striking image of the newly appointed justice donning traditional judicial robes, alongside a portrait of President Mahama. This event marks a significant shift in Ghana’s judicial landscape, following months of political and legal scrutiny over the judiciary’s direction.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s appointment comes after his confirmation by a parliamentary vote of 163-69 on November 13, 2025, succeeding Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, who was removed earlier this year. Having served as Acting Chief Justice since April 2025, Baffoe-Bonnie brings extensive experience from his tenure on Ghana’s High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court. His rise to the top judicial post reflects a deliberate move by the Mahama administration to address concerns over judicial impartiality and efficiency.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie Sworn in as Ghana’s New Chief Justice in Landmark Ceremony
President Mahama swears in Justice Baffoe-Bonnie as new Chief Justice today
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During his vetting process, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie emphasized his commitment to strengthening Ghana judicial independence 2025, promising to ensure equitable access to justice across political divides. This pledge resonates with President Mahama’s broader agenda to reset the judiciary, which he has criticized as being influenced by partisan appointments from the previous administration. The new Chief Justice’s leadership is expected to introduce reforms aimed at rebuilding public trust in the legal system.
The inauguration has sparked varied reactions on social media, with some celebrating the appointment as a step toward renewal, while others question the political motivations behind the rapid judicial overhaul. Supporters highlight Baffoe-Bonnie’s long career and balanced rulings, including his notable role in the 2013 election petition case. As Ghana navigates this transition, the focus remains on how the new Chief Justice will shape the judiciary’s future amid ongoing debates about new Chief Justice inauguration Ghana.
Looking ahead, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s tenure will be closely watched as he tackles challenges such as case backlogs and allegations of corruption. With the support of President Mahama and a reformed judicial framework, there is optimism that his leadership could mark a turning point for Ghana’s legal system. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops, reflecting the evolving landscape of Ghana’s governance and justice sector.
