The Judicial Service issued a statement on Friday, September 4, to address the public debate sparked by Chief Justice Paul Baffoe‑Bonnie’s remarks on state‑owned enterprises (SOEs). The statement, signed by the Judicial Secretary, affirmed that the observations were made in good faith and were not aimed at undermining judicial independence.
Chief Justice Baffoe‑Bonnie made the comments during visits to the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) and the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) on Wednesday, September 2. At MIIF he praised the institution’s performance and questioned Ghana’s progress over the previous eight years. At SSNIT he noted past plans to dispose of assets such as the Labadi Beach Hotel and highlighted improvements in state‑institution management under the current administration.
The remarks drew criticism from various quarters. The Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD‑Ghana) urged the Chief Justice to exercise restraint, warning that contrasting the current administration with its predecessor could create a perception of political bias. The New Patriotic Party also questioned the neutrality of the Chief Justice, suggesting that such comments could erode public confidence in the judiciary. Political activist and physician Dr Arthur Kobina Kennedy added that the remarks might be viewed as political commentary from an independent arm of government.
Despite the backlash, some members of the public defended the Chief Justice’s right to comment on the performance of public institutions when such observations are based on measurable performance and national development concerns. The Judicial Service reiterated the Chief Justice’s commitment to the constitutional role of the judiciary, stating that he remains dedicated to upholding its integrity, independence, and the promotion of justice and equality before the law.
Observers will watch how the judiciary navigates the balance between public engagement and perceived impartiality in the coming weeks.
