Justice Baffoe-Bonnie Steps In as Acting Chief Justice Amid Torkornoo Suspension
Veteran Supreme Court Justice takes over top judicial role as probe into Chief Justice Torkornoo unfolds amid national scrutiny.
- CJ Torkornoo suspended by President Mahama
- A five-member committee is investigating the allegations
- Justice Baffoe-Bonnie appointed Acting Chief Justice under Article 144(6)
Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, the longest-serving Justice on Ghana’s Supreme Court bench, has been appointed Acting Chief Justice following the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.
His appointment aligns with Article 144(6) of the 1992 Constitution, which designates the most senior Supreme Court Justice to assume the role when the Chief Justice is unable to perform their duties.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, who joined the Supreme Court in June 2008 under former President John Agyekum Kufuor, takes the helm at a pivotal time for the nation’s judiciary.
Chief Justice Torkornoo was suspended on April 22, 2025, by President John Dramani Mahama after a prima facie case was established against her. The suspension is linked to three separate petitions demanding her removal, though the specific allegations remain under wraps.
In accordance with Article 146(6), and after consulting the Council of State, a five-member committee has been formed to investigate the claims. The suspension has ignited widespread discussion, raising concerns over judicial independence and the integrity of the legal process.
Until the investigation concludes and a decision is reached, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie will serve as the interim leader of the Judiciary, ensuring stability and continuity at the nation’s highest court.
