By: Ashiadey Dotse
The President, John Dramani Mahama, has called on the judiciary to strengthen its protection of human rights and civil liberties as Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie was sworn in as the new Chief Justice at the Jubilee House on Monday, November 17, 2025.
Delivering his address during the ceremony, President Mahama said the courts remain the last refuge for the poor, the vulnerable, persons with disabilities, and all who feel powerless in the face of authority. He stressed that the judiciary must ensure that every Ghanaian’s rights are protected and upheld.
“The judiciary must deepen its protection of human rights and civil liberties,” he said.
President Mahama reaffirmed his government’s support for an independent judiciary, saying it is essential for safeguarding justice and democracy. He emphasised that court decisions must be respected at all times, whether they are popular or not, adding that “an independent judiciary is not a favour to the courts; it is a constitutional necessity.”
He urged the new Chief Justice to intensify efforts to make justice accessible, affordable, and timely. According to him, many citizens still face delays, long adjournments, and high costs when seeking justice, which turn courtrooms into places of frustration instead of hope. He called for reforms such as modern court infrastructure, digital systems, e-filing, virtual hearings, and simplified procedures.
Speaking on corruption, President Mahama warned that even one act of wrongdoing by a judicial officer can destroy years of public confidence. He encouraged strict disciplinary systems, transparent case management, and firm action against misconduct to ensure that justice in Ghana is not for sale.
He also called for strengthening specialised courts dealing with family issues, land matters, commercial disputes, environmental cases, and corruption. He added that justice must be visible and experienced in the daily lives of citizens, not only written in law books.
The President further urged the Chief Justice to promote continuous learning among judges, support the Judicial Training Institute, and foster stronger collaboration between the bench, the bar, law enforcement, and civil society.
President Mahama assured Justice Baffoe-Bonnie of the full cooperation of his administration while respecting the independence of the judiciary. He encouraged him to lead with courage, fairness, and humility, noting that every case represents real people and real futures.
