Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has reiterated the vital role of an independent and impartial judiciary while addressing newly sworn-in judicial officers at a ceremony in Accra on Monday, November 17, 2025.
Delivering his remarks, the Chief Justice stressed that the strength of any democratic society depends significantly on the credibility of its justice system.
He underscored that judges must remain insulated from political interference, personal bias, and external pressures in order to dispense fair, consistent, and trustworthy justice.
According to him, a truly independent judiciary not only safeguards the constitutional framework but also reinforces public confidence in the rule of law.
“Our judiciary must be independent, impartial, and accessible. It must not serve the powerful or the connected at the expense of the weak and the vulnerable. It must resist any incursions on its freedoms but also embrace accountability, transparency, and continuous reform,” he stated.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie encouraged the newly appointed judges to adhere to the highest ethical standards as they take up their duties, reminding them that each ruling they make carries significant implications for individuals, institutions, and the nation as a whole.
He further stressed the importance of ongoing professional development, noting that the legal environment continues to evolve and demands constant learning.
The Chief Justice also called for stronger cooperation between the judiciary and other branches of government, while maintaining the courts’ independence as a non-negotiable principle.
He emphasised that protecting judicial independence is a collective obligation grounded in respect, transparency, and fidelity to constitutional limits.
The ceremony, which also reaffirmed Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s own commitment to dedicated and impartial service, represents another milestone in Ghana’s efforts to strengthen its justice system and uphold democratic values.
