Baffoe-Bonnie Faces Parliamentary Vetting for Chief Justice Role Today
Nominee to outline judicial vision amid Minority pushback on timing
Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie is set to appear before Parliament’s Appointments Committee today for vetting as the nominee for Chief Justice, marking a pivotal step in Ghana’s judicial leadership transition.
The session kicks off at 11:00 a.m. and follows his nomination by President John Dramani Mahama. An official notice from Parliament’s Director of Media Relations, David Sebastian Damoah, confirms the proceedings.
Background
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie steps in after the dismissal of Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, who held the position since 2023. During the vetting, MPs will probe his qualifications, judicial philosophy, and plans for strengthening Ghana’s justice system ahead of a House recommendation for approval.
Recent Tensions
On Friday, November 7, Speaker Alban Bagbin rejected a motion by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin to pause the process until court cases involving the former Chief Justice are resolved. Afenyo-Markin cited constitutional concerns, warning of potential interference in judicial matters.
Bagbin countered:
“There is no constitutional or procedural basis to suspend parliamentary work due to a court case… Such a move would set a dangerous precedent.”
The ruling allows the vetting to proceed, underscoring Parliament’s commitment to its oversight role.
