The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has formally apologised to the Judiciary following the tense exchanges that erupted during the vetting of Chief Justice nominee, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, on Monday, November 10, 2025.

Delivering a statement to the House on Tuesday, November 11, Speaker Bagbin expressed deep regret over the incident, reaffirming Parliament’s respect for the Judiciary as a coequal arm of government under Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.

“Parliamentary rules caution members against imputing improper motives or using words that are disrespectful or likely to cause offence. The Standing Orders serve as a reminder that our proceedings must always reflect the dignity and integrity of Parliament as a key organ of state,” he stated.

Mr. Bagbin stated that the Judiciary remains an independent institution and must not be subjected to any form of external influence or control, reminding members of the doctrine of separation of powers which demands mutual respect among the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary.

“I wish to reaffirm Parliament’s unwavering respect for the Judiciary as a coequal arm of governance under Article 125(1) of the 1992 Constitution,” he said.

The Speaker revealed that he has directed the leadership of the Appointments Committee to review the incident and ensure that future proceedings uphold the highest standards of civility, objectivity, and institutional respect.

He reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to strengthening its cooperative relationship with the Judiciary, stating:

“On your behalf, I extend our deepest apologies and assurances of Parliament’s continued respect for the Judiciary and its esteemed members,” Bagbin said.

Concluding his remarks, Speaker Bagbin cautioned MPs to maintain decorum and discipline during proceedings, warning that he would act decisively against any future misconduct.

“I will come back on this issue of decency, discipline, and decorum—and this time, I am coming with the hammer, not the gavel,” he said.