Accra, Ghana – Chief Justice nominee, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, has defended his appearance before Parliament’s Appointments Committee, insisting that it is appropriate for him to undergo vetting despite ongoing legal challenges surrounding the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. Appearing before the committee on Monday, November 10, 2025, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie maintained that the vetting process was in line with constitutional requirements and that there was no legal barrier to prevent Parliament from carrying out its mandate.
“I think it’s very proper; it’s a constitutional duty that Parliament is performing. As of now, there’s no court order restraining Parliament from the vetting. Nothing stops you from performing your constitutional duty,” he asserted when questioned by the Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga.
The Minority in Parliament had earlier boycotted the process, arguing that the vetting should be halted until the courts deliver rulings on suits challenging Justice Torkornoo’s removal. The Minority contended that proceeding with the vetting undermines the judicial process and could have far-reaching implications for constitutional governance.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has also raised strong objections to the vetting, describing it as a threat to Ghana’s constitutional order and judicial independence. The party claims that the nomination by the Mahama administration constitutes a “grave breach of constitutional order,” given that the removal of former Chief Justice Torkornoo is still the subject of multiple court cases.
The NPP has cited seven substantive legal suits pending before the Supreme Court, the High Court, and the ECOWAS Court of Justice, challenging the legality and procedure surrounding Justice Torkornoo’s removal. The party has accused the government of showing disregard for judicial due process and warned that proceeding with the appointment constitutes “a pre-emptive assault on the judicial function.”
The Appointments Committee has proceeded with the vetting, which is expected to determine whether Justice Baffoe-Bonnie will be confirmed as Ghana’s substantive Chief Justice after months of serving in an acting capacity.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
