Barely weeks after the dismissal of Justice Gertrude Araba Essaba Torkonoo, President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as her replacement, making him the ninth Chief Justice under the Fourth Republic.
In a statement issued by the Presidency, it was announced that the President has, in line with Article 144(1) of the 1992 Constitution, forwarded Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s name to the Council of State for consideration and subsequent approval as Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana.
“President John Dramani Mahama has, in accordance with Article 144(1) of the 1992 Constitution, forwarded the name of His Lordship Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie to the Council of State for consideration as Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana,” the statement read.
A Distinguished Judicial Career
The Presidency described Justice Baffoe-Bonnie as a jurist of “diligence and integrity”, who has served with distinction at the High Court, the Court of Appeal and currently, the Supreme Court.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, it added, has made “invaluable contributions to the development of Ghanaian jurisprudence,” and has earned the respect of the Bench, the Bar and the wider legal fraternity for his intellect, impartiality and unwavering commitment to justice.
His extensive experience and long service on the Bench, according to the government, render him “eminently qualified” to occupy the high office of Chief Justice.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie has been serving as Acting Chief Justice since April 22, 2025, following the suspension of Justice Torkonoo.
Events Leading to the Dismissal of Justice Torkonoo
Justice Torkonoo’s removal stemmed from a series of petitions submitted to the Presidency earlier this year.
In July, President Mahama suspended her pending investigations, and subsequently appointed a committee chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang to probe the allegations.
The committee’s report, submitted weeks ago, established prima facie evidence of misconduct against the former Chief Justice. Acting on the findings, President Mahama dismissed her from office.
Justice Torkonoo, who succeeded Justice Kwasi Anin-Yeboah in June 2023, served a relatively short tenure that was marked by both judicial reforms and controversies, culminating in her suspension and eventual removal.
Next Step
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s nomination will follow constitutional procedure, beginning with advice from the Council of State, after which Parliament is expected to vet and approve him.
Once confirmed, he will become Ghana’s 16th Chief Justice.
Observers say the appointment comes at a critical moment, as Ghana’s judiciary faces heightened public scrutiny over integrity, independence, and accountability.
Two Nigerian nationals accused of orchestrating a sophisticated online fraud and laundering the proceeds through vehicle and property acquisitions have been granted bail by the Circuit Court in Accra.
The accused, Solomon David King and Kingsley Okokon Etuk, both 48, were on Tuesday slapped with GH¢1 million bail each, to be justified with two sureties each, supported by title deeds in the names of the sureties.
The ruling was given by Her Honour Susana Eduful, presiding over the Circuit Court.
The pair pleaded not guilty to four counts: conspiracy to commit crime, defrauding by false pretences and money laundering.
Alleged Fraud Scheme
According to the prosecution, led by DSP Emmanuel Nyamekye, the accused allegedly defrauded two foreign nationals – Mr Gommarie Michele, an American citizen and L. Anthony, a Canadian of a total sum of $715,000 USD between 2020 and 2025.
Per court documents, the accused convinced the victims online that they could assist them to acquire and ship a consignment of goods valued at over US$12 million.
The victims, believing the representations to be true, made payments in tranches via money transfers and through intermediaries in the USA and Togo.
The victims were eventually lured to Togo under the pretext of receiving the consignment, but ended up parting with additional funds and returned home empty-handed. It was later revealed the consignment never existed.
The matter came to light after the victims narrated their experience to Victor Efiong, a fellow Nigerian resident in Accra, who then reported the incident to the police.
The prosecutor alleged that part of the defrauded funds were used to purchase personal assets. King is said to have bought a Hyundai Elantra (AW 3144-13), while Etuk allegedly acquired a Toyota Camry (KWL 359 HZ) and a five-hectare farm plantation in Suhum, Eastern Region — all purportedly acquired from proceeds of the unlawful activity.
Both accused are facing separate money laundering charges under Section 1(1) of the Anti-Money Laundering Act, 2007 (Act 749).
The digital devices of the accused have been retrieved for forensic analysis as part of ongoing investigations. Prosecutors believe these may contain evidence of the alleged communications and transactions with the victims.
The case has been adjourned to November 3, 2025, as investigations continue.
Protesters wield a banner during the demonstration in Accra
The youth wing of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has staged a massive demonstration in Accra, accusing President John Dramani Mahama and his administration of weaponising state institutions, especially the security services, to suppress opposition voices and intimidate citizens.
A demonstrator holds a placard to express his disappointment with authorities
The protest, which was named ‘Yen Suro Ahunahuna’ – meaning we are not afraid of intimidation in Akan – began at the popular Obra Spot and proceeded through the streets of the capital to the Police Headquarters and finally to the Jubilee House, the official seat of government.
Dressed in symbolic red and black attire to signify anger and resistance, the demonstrators carried placards with messages expressing their frustrations and demands.
The inscriptions on some of the placards read: “Stop the Intimidation”, “Jezebel Used False Judges, Mahama Uses Chief Unjust Justice”, “The Removal of the Chief Justice Equals the Death of Democracy”, “IGP, Stop the Selective Arrests – Justice Must Be Equal”.
Henry Nana Boakye
Addressing the media ahead of presenting a formal petition to the police, Henry Nana Boakye, the National Organiser of the NPP, condemned what he described as a dangerous and deliberate strategy by the Mahama-led administration to stifle dissent and suppress political opposition.
He lamented what he termed the increasing politicisation of state security institutions warning that such developments threaten Ghana’s democratic gains.
According to him, opposition voices are being unfairly silenced through arbitrary arrests, particularly when they express views that are critical of the government.
“This protest is against the deliberate weaponisation of state institutions, especially the security agencies, to harass members of the opposition party. Selective justice and the unjustified arrests of individuals merely for expressing views—no matter how critical—are becoming far too common.”
He called on President Mahama to take immediate action to curb the injustices and restore public confidence in state institutions.
Nana Boakye insisted that being elected president comes with the responsibility to protect all citizens, not just loyalists of the ruling party.
“What the youth wing is seeking to achieve today is to send a clear message to President Mahama: You are the President of the Republic of Ghana.
“You were elected to defend the Constitution and protect the rights of all Ghanaians. Unfortunately, the trajectory of our democracy under your leadership is alarming, it is declining.”
He further emphasised that a change in government should not give any administration the license to misuse power, adding that state institutions must operate independently and fairly, without political interference.
Sammy Awuku Also speaking to the media during the protest was Sammy Awuku, Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, who criticized the apparent double standards in how justice is administered in the country.
“Today, injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,” he said, paraphrasing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
“The selective application of the rule of law in Ghana is not only sickening, but dangerous to our democratic future.”
Sammy Awuku cited specific examples where members of the ruling NDC made inflammatory or threatening statements and were treated leniently, sometimes invited for casual discussions and released on bail without further consequence.
In contrast, he argued, NPP officials and supporters who make even moderately critical remarks are swiftly arrested, denied bail, and subjected to harsh legal conditions.
“You will see a Vice Chairman of the ruling party making violent threats, and he is merely called in for tea or coffee and allowed to go. Yet, an opposition regional chairman makes a comment the police find uncomfortable, and that person is immediately detained and given draconian bail conditions.
“Then you have judges making comments that suggest not all citizens are equal before the law, quoting George Orwell’s Animal Farm to justify their decisions.”
Awuku praised the NPP youth for organizing the protest, saying it was a timely and necessary stand against what he called creeping tyranny and suppression.
Bernard Okoe Boye
Former Minister of Health, Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, also took part in the protest and urged the security agencies, particularly the police, to uphold their professional code rather than follow political directives.
He expressed disappointment over what he called the discriminatory application of the law and emphasized the importance of professionalism in public service.
“We are here to tell the police leadership that it is always better to remain professional than to take instructions from politicians. Politics will always have an expiry date, but your integrity and professionalism will live beyond any political administration.” NPP Youth
The protesting youth made several demands in their petition, which was presented to the police. They called for an immediate end to the politicization of law enforcement and urged the Mahama administration to uphold the principles of fairness, justice, and equal treatment under the law.
They also demanded an end to politically motivated arrests and the persecution of opposition members. Additionally, they called for the restoration of independence and professionalism within the Ghana Police Service and other state institutions.
The protesters further emphasised the need to protect freedom of speech and expression for all Ghanaians, regardless of political affiliation.
Finally, they requested public assurance from the President that all citizens will be treated equally before the law.
Recent reports indicate that the cost of securing the presidency in Ghana may reach as high as $200 million USD – a staggering figure that should provoke deep concern among all stakeholders invested in the future of our democracy.
Each election cycle exposes a dangerous and growing trend, the escalating cost of political participation. From exorbitant campaign expenditures to monetised party primaries and widespread vote-buying, the financial barriers to entry are spiraling out of control.
If this trajectory remains unchecked, it will not only marginalise qualified candidates lacking deep pockets, but also entrench corruption as elected officials seek to recoup campaign expenditures once in office. This threatens to undermine the very foundation of Ghana’s democratic governance.
Fortunately, the 1992 Constitution provides the Electoral Commission (EC) with the necessary mandate to regulate political financing and supervise political parties. But constitutional authority must now be translated into decisive action. Ghana’s democracy cannot afford complacency.
Article 55(14) of the Constitution clearly empowers the EC to oversee political party funding. This is not merely a bureaucratic responsibility it is a fundamental democratic imperative. The Electoral Commission must leverage this authority fully to confront the corrosive influence of money in politics.
Central to this task is the enforcement of financial transparency. Political parties and candidates must be compelled to disclose their sources of funding and detail campaign expenditures openly. These disclosures should be accessible to the public to build trust and deter illicit financing, including money laundering and foreign interference.
Such transparency must go beyond mere paperwork. The Electoral Commission should establish a publicly accessible financial disclosure platform and enforce robust penalties for non-compliance, including fines, suspension or disqualification of offenders.
Moreover, the EC should advocate for legislated spending caps on election campaigns, applicable at all levels of government. By collaborating with Parliament and civil society actors, the Commission can help define reasonable limits that level the playing field and reduce undue financial pressure on candidates.
In addition, the Commission must regulate third-party campaign financing to prevent candidates from circumventing spending limits through allied organisations or individuals.
Media exposure is another significant driver of campaign costs. The EC, in partnership with the National Media Commission, should mandate free and equitable airtime for all qualified candidates on state-owned media outlets. This intervention will ensure fair visibility and competition, mitigating the advantage of candidates with greater financial resources.
Furthermore, the Electoral Commission must enforce strict prohibitions on the use of state resources for partisan purposes. Abuse of public assets—such as government vehicles, staff, and facilities—by ruling parties during campaigns undermines democratic fairness and must be decisively curtailed.
The high cost of politics is also perpetuated within party primaries, where candidates often expend vast sums to secure nominations. The Electoral Commission should monitor internal party processes, encouraging political parties to adopt transparent, inclusive, and affordable nomination mechanisms. Internal democracy must not become a commodity for sale to the highest bidder.
Addressing the cost of politics demands collaborative efforts. The E.C. should work closely with anti-corruption agencies like CHRAJ, EOCO, and the Auditor-General’s office to track, investigate, and prosecute violations of electoral finance laws.
Equally vital is civic education. Many voters expect or accept inducements because they lack awareness of the long-term damage these practices inflict on governance and national development. The EC must partner with the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) and civil society organisations to enlighten citizens on the dangers of monetized politics.
The escalating cost of political participation is not simply an economic challenge – it is a direct threat to the health and sustainability of Ghana’s democracy. Without urgent intervention, our elections risk devolving into auctions where wealth, not merit or ideas, determines leadership.
The Electoral Commission must rise to the occasion. Through unwavering commitment to transparency, regulation, collaboration, and public education, the E.C. can restore integrity to Ghana’s political system, making it less about money, and more about service to the people.
The Divisional Chief of Nkroful, Nana Kwasi Kutuah V, has made a heartfelt appeal to the President to consider elevating the status of Nkroful, the birthplace of Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, by constructing a modern hospital in the area.
Speaking during the recent celebration of Nkrumah Memorial Day, the chief emphasised the symbolic and practical importance of such a facility, noting that Nkroful still lacks a hospital, despite its historic significance.
Nana Kwasi Kutuah (middle) seated amongst the dignitaries at the NKRUMAHFEST
“Considering the pivotal role Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah played in Ghana’s independence, building a modern hospital here would be a lasting legacy and a fitting tribute to his name.
“You may expect to find well-developed infrastructure in Nkroful, but unfortunately that is not the case,” he said.
He added: “Let this be your legacy, build a decent hospital befitting the memory and stature of Kwame Nkrumah.”
The celebration dubbed: ‘NkrumahFest” marking the 116th birthday of Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah, drew a massive and diverse crowd.
The celebration brought together a stellar cast of dignitaries from the political sphere, traditional leadership and the creative arts industry, as well as captains of Industries.
A vibrant display of Nzema culture and tradition featured prominently during the celebration.
For instance, Nana Kwasi Kutuah V led a grand procession of chiefs showcasing the rich customs and heritage of the people of Nkriful.
Nzema local dishes were also showcased to the thousands of people who had gathered for the celebration
Continuing, the chief stressed that honouring Nkrumah should go beyond ceremonial observances and urged the President to take decisive action that reflects the nation’s appreciation for the late leader’s contribution to Ghana’s development.
Nana Kwasi Kutuah also expressed deep appreciation to the Member of Parliament for Ellembelle, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, for his consistent commitment to the development of Nkroful and for championing this year’s celebration.
He remarked, “This celebration has taken this remarkable dimension because of one person -Armah Kofi Buah.”
The chief used the platform to urge the government to prioritize economic freedom for Ghanaians, stating that while the country enjoys political independence, true economic peace remains elusive.
“Our leaders must work to eliminate corruption and promote genuine economic progress so that Ghanaians can enjoy not just freedom, but prosperity as well,” he concluded.
MP Issah Salifu Taylor (in smock) together with Nurses behind the medical equipments
Health facilities in the Tarkwa and Prestea Huni-Valley Municipalities have received a major boost, following the donation of critical medical equipment by the GoldFields Ghana Foundation (GFGF), in partnership with Project C.U.R.E.
Valued at $790,000 the equipment – which includes ICU beds, neonatal incubators, nebulizers, surgical tools, otoscopes, centrifuges, sphygmomanometers and more were distributed over the weekend to public health facilities within GoldFields’ host communities.
The donation, according to the Foundation, is part of a broader effort to strengthen primary healthcare delivery in the mining areas and reduce the burden on referral hospitals like the Apinto Government Hospital.
“This initiative is about building a legacy of medical excellence in our host communities,” said Abdul-Razak Yakubu, Executive Secretary of the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation.
Nana Adarkwa Bediako handing over medical equipments to another set of medical staff
“We are not only donating the equipment, but also covering the cost of transportation and installation. We expect the communities to take ownership and maintain the equipment going forward,” he added.
Abdul-Razak Yakubu noted that this donation forms part of a pilot project with Project C.U.R.E., and hinted that more health facilities would benefit in subsequent phases.
The Prestea Huni-Valley Municipal Health Director, Timothy Ofori, described the donation as a “milestone in the development of healthcare” in the two municipalities.
He praised the Foundation’s commitment to building a resilient health system. “We are building a robust health infrastructure here and GoldFields has once again delivered. These supplies will go a long way in supporting healthcare delivery at all levels,” he said.
Member of Parliament for Tarkwa-Nsuaem and Managing Trustee of GFGF, Issifu Taylor, emphasised the long-term impact of the initiative.
“This is not just a donation, it is a legacy. It is about ensuring that the mineral wealth of our land is translated into well-being for our people.
“When we invest in health, we invest in life. When we strengthen our health systems, we strengthen our future,” the MP said.
Taylor reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for sustainable investments in health, education, and infrastructure, which he described as the true pillars of development.
The donation reflects Gold Fields Ghana Foundation’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility, particularly in the areas of health, education and community development.
The Foundation has over the years invested significantly in projects aimed at improving the quality of life in its host communities.
As the equipment begins to arrive in facilities across Tarkwa and Prestea Huni-Valley, health workers and residents alike are hopeful that this intervention will mark the beginning of a stronger and more responsive healthcare system.
Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has announced that contributions exceeding ₦20 billion have been collected for the National Library project.
She said this was achieved through the Oluremi Tinubu at 65 Fund, a special initiative launched to commemorate her 65th birthday to channel public goodwill into a lasting legacy for Nigeria.
The first lady disclosed this during an interactive session with State House Correspondents at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Mrs. Tinubu had encouraged Nigerians to forgo sending personal gifts or publishing celebratory messages in newspapers, on television, or on the radio.
Instead, she called for donations to support the construction of a state-of-the-art National Library, which, according to her, is envisioned as a beacon of knowledge and cultural preservation for future generations.
She said responses from individuals, organisations, and communities across the nation have been overwhelming, with the fund amassing over ₦20 billion in a short period.
Speaking on her intentions, the First Lady emphasised that her efforts are driven by a deep sense of duty and patriotism, not political ambition.
“This is not about politics; it is about what I can do for my country,” she stated, underscoring her commitment to advancing education and intellectual development in Nigeria.
The United States Mission in Nigeria has stated that individuals involved in corrupt practices can be barred from entering the United States, regardless of their economic status or position.
The Mission made this declaration via its official X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday.
The declaration reaffirmed the country’s stance on global anti-corruption efforts, as President Donald Trump tightens grip on immigration policies.
In May 2023, the US announced that it had taken steps to impose visa bans on persons who disrupted the recent general elections in Nigeria.
“Fighting corruption knows no borders or limits on accountability. Even when high-profile individuals engage in corruption, they can be barred from receiving US visas,” the post read.
In a statement on the US State Department website, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, “The United States is committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Nigeria and around the world. Today, I am announcing that we have taken steps to impose visa restrictions on specific individuals in Nigeria for undermining the democratic process during Nigeria’s 2023 election cycle.”
At the weekend, President Trump imposed a new fee of $100, 000 on H-1B visas for foreigners.
The move has sent panic, confusion, and anger down the spines of workers on H-1B visas from foreign countries, as they are being forced to abandon travel plans and rush back to the U.S.
A Reuters report said tech companies and banks sent urgent memos to employees, advising them to return before a deadline of 12:01 a.m. EDT on Sunday (0401 GMT), and telling them not to leave the country.
However, a White House official on Saturday clarified that the order applied only to new applicants and not holders of existing visas or those seeking renewals, addressing some of the confusion over who would be affected.
The suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has returned to her office in the National Assembly.
This followed the reopening of her office in the National Assembly by the Sergeant at Arms of the National Assembly, along with a combined team of security operatives.
There was mild drama at the National Assembly complex on Tuesday following Natasha’s arrival.
The lawmaker, dressed in black, arrived at about 2:30 pm in the company of her supporters, shortly after the Sergeant-at-Arms announced the reopening of her office, which had been sealed for months.
However, her entry was initially resisted by some security operatives who prevented her from accessing the main building.
The Senate is currently on recess and is expected to resume plenary on October 7, 2025.
The unsealing of Natasha’s office is an indication that the suspended lawmaker may soon resume her official duties as a senator as lawmakers prepares to resume plenary on October 7, 2025.
Natasha had made an allegation of sexual harassment against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
The office had remained locked for six months, following Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension by the Senate in March over alleged violations of its standing rules.
Her suspension had sparked widespread reactions, with many, particularly civil society organisations and opposition politicians, condemning the Senate’s action.
She approached the court in July over the matter and made an unsuccessful attempt to resume sitting.
Similarly, the country’s economy grew by 4.23 percent in the second quarter of 2025 when compared to 3.13 percent in the preceding quarter.
While agriculture, services, industries and oil sectors recorded growth, manufacturing, trade, ICT and motor assembly contracted.
Within the African countries, Nigeria’s interest rate and inflation are still among the highest, higher than Ghana and South Africa.
Ghana cut its interest rate by 350 basis points to 21.5 percent while inflation stood at 11.5 percent. South Africa’s interest rate is 7 percent, and August inflation stood at 3.3 percent. Credit: dailypost.ng
