Mahama Nominates Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Chief Justice Weeks After Torkornoo’s Removal
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Supreme Court Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Ghana’s next Chief Justice, just weeks after removing incumbent Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo from office amid allegations of misconduct.
The nomination, made under Article 144(1) of the 1992 Constitution, has been forwarded to the Council of State for vetting, with Parliament’s approval required for confirmation.
In a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Mahama praised Baffoe-Bonnie’s “distinguished judicial career,” noting his service across the High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court since 2008.
“Justice Baffoe-Bonnie has served with diligence and integrity… [making] invaluable contributions to the development of Ghanaian jurisprudence,” the statement read. At 68 (born December 26, 1956), Baffoe-Bonnie has been Acting Chief Justice since April 22, 2025, following Torkornoo’s suspension, and is regarded for his intellect, impartiality, and commitment to justice.
Baffoe-Bonnie’s potential appointment comes at a pivotal time for the judiciary, with public demands for reforms, improved access to justice, and transparency. He previously served as a Circuit Court Judge, Principal Inspector of Taxes at the Internal Revenue Service, and Deputy Superintendent of Prisons, and was part of the Supreme Court panel that dismissed the NPP’s 2012 election petition. He is married and speaks English and Twi.
Torkornoo’s removal on September 1, 2025, followed a Pwamang Committee inquiry under Article 146(6), which found grounds of misbehavior, invoking Article 146(9) for her dismissal—the second such case in Ghana’s history. Her applications to Ghanaian courts were dismissed, but a sub-regional case remains pending.
If approved, Baffoe-Bonnie will lead judicial reforms amid ongoing challenges, including the UCC Vice-Chancellor dispute and broader calls for accountability.
