President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Supreme Court Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Ghana’s next Chief Justice, following the removal of Justice Gertrude Torkornoo earlier this month.
The President made the announcement in a statement issued by the Presidency on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.
According to the presidency, this is in line with Article 144(1) of the 1992 Constitution, which requires the President to consult the Council of State before appointing a Chief Justice.
The statement described Justice Baffoe-Bonnie as one with diligence and integrity who has served across all levels of Ghana’s judiciary.
The statement also praised him for his contributions to the development of Ghana’s judicial system.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie has been serving as Acting Chief Justice since April 22, 2025, when Justice Torkornoo was directed to step aside following parliamentary approval of a motion seeking her removal.
Full Statement
Her removal marked the first time a sitting Chief Justice has been dismissed under Ghana’s Fourth Republic, sparking debate about judicial independence.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, who was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2008, will now be expected to face parliamentary vetting in the coming weeks.
If approved, he will officially become Ghana’s next Chief Justice.
