Minister for the Interior Mubarak Muntaka Mohammed has voiced strong support for Chief Justice nominee Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, describing him as one of Ghana’s most experienced and competent judges.

During Parliament’s debate on the Appointments Committee’s report on Thursday, November 13, Mr. Muntaka commended Justice Baffoe-Bonnie for his dedication and long service to the judiciary under successive administrations.

“The nominee, if you look at his experience, has been there for 17 years. Mr. Speaker, if you look at his impeccable record, you will wonder why he has not been Chief Justice long ago,” the Minister stated.

The Minister added that Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s professionalism and commitment make him the right person for the role.

“He has run his career through almost all governments. He’s one of the very experienced persons we have. Everybody marks his time, and this is his time — the time for Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie. We must support him and encourage him to give his best.”

Mr. Muntaka also called for an amendment to the Appointments Committee’s report to indicate that Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s approval was reached by consensus rather than a majority decision.

He explained that although the Minority members walked out during the vetting, their names remained on the committee’s records and no formal vote had been taken.

“I suggest that we amend the committee’s report to say that the decision was by consensus and not a majority decision. Because though they walked out, their names were still recorded, and by the time they walked out, there was no voting,” he said.

However, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin dismissed the suggestion, maintaining that the Minority’s walkout amounted to a withdrawal from the process and that the committee’s report would stand as submitted.