The Judicial Service has issued a statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie’s recent visit to Canada, following widespread public commentary sparked by photographs of him at the Black Stars’ camp during the ongoing FIFA World Cup.
Public interest surged after images circulated online showing the Chief Justice interacting with Ghana’s national football team. Some questioned whether the trip was an official state assignment or involved public resources. In response, the Judicial Service, in a statement released on Friday, June 19, explained that Justice Baffoe-Bonnie was in Canada on an official vacation, traveling strictly in a private capacity and at his own expense. The statement emphasized that the trip was not connected to any state business or public spending.
According to the Judicial Service, the Chief Justice took the opportunity, while on holiday, to visit and encourage the Black Stars, describing his actions as a personal and patriotic gesture in support of the national team on the world stage.
Addressing the ensuing public debate, the Judicial Service underscored that judicial independence does not mean that judges must isolate themselves from public or national life. Judges, as citizens, are entitled to participate in lawful social and national activities, so long as these do not compromise their constitutional responsibilities. The statement highlighted that the Chief Justice and the broader Judiciary remain guided by the principles of independence, impartiality, and fidelity to the law.
The Service also cautioned against interpreting interactions among holders of constitutional office, whether formal or informal, as signs of bias or political alignment. Such engagements are common in democratic societies and do not, in themselves, undermine institutional neutrality.
Reaffirming Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s dedication to his office, the Judicial Service insisted that he remains committed to administering fair and impartial justice, regardless of political or social considerations. The Service further noted that the Black Stars are a unifying symbol for all Ghanaians, and that supporting the team should not be mistaken as compromising the neutrality of any constitutional office holder.
Concluding, the Judicial Service urged the public to view the Chief Justice’s visit in its proper context and to disregard unfounded interpretations. The Service reiterated its commitment to upholding public trust in the Judiciary through integrity, independence, and adherence to the rule of law.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com