President John Dramani Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to the independence of the judiciary and highlighted its vital role in upholding the rule of law during the investiture of Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Ghana’s new Chief Justice.
Speaking at Jubilee House on Monday, November 17, 2025, President Mahama said, “An independent judiciary is not a favor to the courts. It is a constitutional necessity and a protection for every citizen, including the President.”
He emphasized that the decisions of the courts, whether popular or unpopular, must be respected.
“This is the bedrock of the rule of law,” he said, urging the judiciary to continue its work “without fear or favor, and as you said in your oath, without affection or ill will.”
The President underlined that judicial independence guarantees fairness, accountability, and protection for all citizens, noting that the judiciary must remain above reproach to maintain public trust in the legal system.
Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie was sworn in as Ghana’s 16th Chief Justice, following Parliament’s approval of his nomination on November 13, 2025.
He had been serving as Acting Chief Justice since April 22, 2025, and assumes the role after the suspension and subsequent dismissal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
His confirmation received strong support in Parliament, with 163 votes in favor and 69 against, despite objections from some minority MPs who raised concerns regarding aspects of his record and judicial approach.
