Parliament has officially approved Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as the new Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana, following a headcount vote after an extensive debate on the Appointments Committee’s report.

The Majority Caucus, which backed the nomination, secured 163 votes, while the Minority Caucus recorded 69 votes against the motion to adopt the Committee’s report.

The Speaker of Parliament subsequently announced the approval, citing the decision as being in accordance with Article 144(1) of the 1992 Constitution.

“This Honourable House has accordingly approved the nomination of Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana,” the Speaker declared.

He further urged the new Chief Justice to reflect on the process leading to his confirmation and to uphold the values of justice, fairness, and integrity during his tenure.

Presenting the Appointments Committee’s report, Hon. Bernard Ahiafor, Chairman of the Committee, noted that Justice Baffoe-Bonnie demonstrated exceptional competence, deep legal knowledge, and a strong sense of judicial ethics.

“The Committee is satisfied that the nominee possesses the requisite qualifications, judicial temperament, and commitment to constitutional values expected of a Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana,” Hon. Ahiafor stated.

Despite this endorsement, the vetting process was not without controversy. Members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) reportedly walked out during parts of the vetting proceedings in opposition to aspects of the process.

With his confirmation, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie assumes the highest judicial office in Ghana, marking another milestone in a distinguished career dedicated to the pursuit of justice and constitutional governance.

By Lucy Mawufemor Kpeglo