The Appointments Committee of Parliament will today, Monday, November 10, 2025, vet Supreme Court Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie for the role of Chief Justice, following his nomination by President John Dramani Mahama.
The vetting, scheduled to start at 11:00 a.m., was confirmed in an official notice issued by David Sebastian Damoah, Director of Media Relations at Parliament.
Members of the Committee are expected to probe Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s judicial experience, philosophy, and plans for reforming Ghana’s justice system before making a recommendation to the full House.
His nomination follows the dismissal of Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, who had served as Chief Justice since 2023. The process is seen as a key moment for Ghana’s judiciary, coming at a time of intense public scrutiny and debate over judicial independence.
Minority’s Attempt to Halt Vetting Dismissed
Last Friday, Speaker Alban Bagbin dismissed a motion by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who sought to suspend the vetting until court cases involving the former Chief Justice were concluded.
Afenyo-Markin argued that proceeding with the process could prejudice ongoing legal proceedings and potentially breach constitutional procedure.
However, Speaker Bagbin ruled against the motion, warning that halting Parliament’s constitutional duties due to pending litigation would “set a dangerous precedent.”
He stressed that Parliament must operate independently and continue its constitutional work without interference from the judiciary.
The vetting of Justice Baffoe-Bonnie is expected to attract keen attention from both lawmakers and the public, given the controversies surrounding recent judicial changes and the pivotal role of the Chief Justice in safeguarding the rule of law.
