Former NPP General SecretaryJohn Boadu has fiercely criticized the parliamentary vetting of Chief Justice nominee Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, describing the process as an endorsement of “illegality.” Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on November 11, Boadu argued that Parliament’s decision to proceed with the vetting, despite unresolved concerns, threatens the integrity of Ghana’s judiciary.

Boadu highlighted a controversial ruling attributed to Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, in which a convicted individual received a 70-year sentence instead of 30 years, reportedly based on the judge’s personal fear that the convict, being young, might retaliate upon release. “That is very dangerous for our body politic. It is very dangerous for our justice delivery in this country,” he warned, emphasizing the risk of decisions driven by personal feelings rather than legal principles.

He questioned the fairness and impartiality of a system where a Chief Justice could render rulings influenced by personal emotions, suggesting that such conduct undermines public trust and the credibility of judicial outcomes. Boadu argued that President John Mahama should have withdrawn the nomination, or that Parliament should have rejected it outright.

Defending the Minority’s boycott of the vetting, Boadu stated that their walkout was a necessary measure to avoid legitimizing perceived illegality. The opposition contended that vetting a nominee amid ongoing legal proceedings was unnecessary, noting that an acting Chief Justice could have served until the matter was resolved. Boadu warned that endorsing the nominee under these circumstances could have lasting negative effects on Ghana’s judicial standards.

Beyond the immediate issue, Boadu lamented Parliament’s weakened capacity to scrutinize government actions effectively. He attributed this partly to the NPP majority, raising broader concerns about the balance of power and oversight in the country’s governance.