President John Dramani Mahama has declared full confidence in newly sworn-in Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, assuring him of the government’s support as he assumes the highest judicial office.
Addressing the gathering at the official swearing in ceremony of Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie on Monday, November 17, the president said “I am confident that under your leadership, my Lord Chief Justice, the judiciary will continue to uphold its constitutional mandate without fear or favour,” the President said.
Mahama described the ceremony as a solemn and historic moment that reaffirms Ghana’s commitment to constitutionalism, the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.
Congratulating the new Chief Justice, he highlighted the constitutional significance of the office, noting that the Chief Justice serves not only as head of the judiciary but as “the symbol and guarantor of justice for our people.”
The President underscored the critical role of the judiciary under Article 125, stressing that courts must administer justice guided by the principles of freedom, equality, probity and accountability.
He reaffirmed his pledge to protect judicial independence, stating that “an independent judiciary is not a favor to the courts, it is a constitutional necessity and a protection for every citizen, including the President.”
Mahama emphasized the need to safeguard the institutional, financial and administrative autonomy of the judiciary. He insisted that decisions of the courts, whether popular or not, must be respected and enforced, calling this “the bedrock of the rule of law.”
On judicial integrity, the President warned that a single act of corruption by a judicial officer can erode years of progress.
He tasked the Chief Justice with ensuring firm but fair disciplinary standards, transparent case assignments and strong internal mechanisms for addressing misconduct. “Our citizens must know and feel that justice in Ghana is not for sale,” he cautioned.
Mahama urged the Chief Justice to deepen the protection of human rights, ensuring that justice is not tilted in favour of the wealthy or powerful. He encouraged strengthening specialized courts in areas such as commercial disputes, land issues, environmental protection and corruption, while promoting alternative dispute resolution for community and family matters.
He also called for continuous learning within the judiciary, noting the evolving nature of the law in fields such as cyber law, environmental law and international obligations. The President urged the strengthening of the Judicial Training Institute as a centre of excellence for ethics, judgment writing and technology.
Mahama highlighted the need for a constructive relationship between the bench and the bar, as well as greater public education on how the courts operate. He stressed that the administration of justice is a shared enterprise involving judges, lawyers, traditional authorities, law enforcement and the public.
He charged the new Chief Justice to lead with courage, diligence and humility, reminding him that every case file “represents human lives, families, and people’s futures.”
He assured him of government’s full cooperation and support as he undertakes his “sacred mandate to the people of Ghana.”
