New CJ pledges independent, impartial judiciary

The newly sworn-in Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, has pledged to safeguard the independence, impartiality, and accessibility of the judiciary, affirming that the courts must remain a refuge for all, especially the weak and vulnerable regardless of social or political power.

Speaking moments after President John Dramani Mahama administered the oath of office at the Jubilee House, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie outlined a vision for a justice system anchored in integrity, service, and public trust.

Addressing the President and gathered dignitaries, the Chief Justice declared that every court from the smallest magistrate court to the highest tribunal carries a “sacred duty” to respect and protect the rights, liberties, and human dignity of Ghanaians. He stressed that justice goes beyond written law and is ultimately measured by how courts apply the law and earn the confidence of the people.

“It is not the law alone that matters, but how the law is applied, how justice is dispensed, and how courts earn the confidence of the people,” he said, reminding the nation that the 1992 Constitution enshrines not only rights but responsibilities that demand a judiciary free from external influence.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie vowed that under his leadership, the justice system will not serve “the powerful or the connected at the expense of the weak,” and will remain vigilant against any attempts to compromise its independence. At the same time, he embraced the need for accountability, transparency, and reform, acknowledging public concerns about delays, fairness, and access to justice.

“In recent times, many Ghanaians have expressed concern about delays, assets, and perceptions of fairness in our courts. I wish to confront those concerns head-on,” he stated. “The judiciary must not only be seen to be fair, but must be fair.”

To this end, he outlined priorities including clearing case backlogs, modernising court processes, promoting alternative dispute resolution where suitable, deploying technology, and ensuring that ordinary citizens can step into courtrooms with confidence.

“These are not optional add-ons; they are imperatives,” the Chief Justice emphasised.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie concluded with a forward-looking commitment to build a service-oriented judiciary one that is efficient, transparent, and respectful of all persons. He called for judges and judicial staff to uphold high ethical standards, treat litigants with dignity, and apply the law “without fear or favour.”

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