Speaker of Parliament apologises to Judiciary over Baffoe-Bonnie’s vetting brouhaha

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

In a statement delivered to the House on Tuesday, November 11, Mr. Bagbin conveyed his regret regarding the incident and reaffirmed Parliament’s profound respect for the Judiciary as a coequal branch 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 stressed that the Judiciary remains independent and should not be subjected to control or direction from any individual or authority.

He reminded members of the doctrine of separation of powers, which necessitates that the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary interact with one another with mutual respect and restraint.

“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 also revealed that he has instructed the leadership of the Appointments Committee to take note of the incident and ensure that “in all future proceedings, the highest standards of civility, objectivity, and institutional respect are maintained”.

He acknowledged that Parliament values its longstanding cooperation and mutual regard with the Judiciary and remains dedicated to enhancing that relationship in the collective service of Ghanaians and the country’s constitutional democracy.

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

Finally, the Speaker urged members of Parliament to maintain decency and discipline in upcoming discussions, warning that he would take strict measures to ensure order.

“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 added.