The Judicial Service has clarified that Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie’s recent visit to the Black Stars camp in Canada was undertaken in his private capacity and not as part of any official state assignment.
In a statement issued on Friday, June 19, the Service explained that the Chief Justice was on official vacation and personally funded the trip, stressing that no public resources were used. The clarification follows widespread public commentary after images of him interacting with the national team during the ongoing FIFA World Cup circulated on social media.
According to the Judicial Service, the Chief Justice took the opportunity during his stay in Canada to visit the Black Stars and offer words of encouragement as they represent Ghana on the global stage. The Service described the gesture as a personal and patriotic act.
The statement also addressed concerns raised about the implications of the visit, emphasising that judicial independence does not require judges to withdraw completely from public life. It noted that judicial officers are entitled to participate in lawful social and national activities, provided such engagements do not compromise their constitutional responsibilities.
“The Constitution demands independence of mind, impartiality and fidelity to the law,” the statement said, adding that these principles continue to guide the conduct of the Chief Justice and the Judiciary as a whole.
The Judicial Service further cautioned against interpreting interactions between public officials as evidence of bias or political alignment, noting that such engagements are common in democratic governance and do not inherently undermine institutional independence.
Reaffirming its confidence in the Chief Justice, the Service stated that he remains committed to the fair and impartial administration of justice, regardless of political or social considerations.
It also highlighted the Black Stars as a unifying national symbol, urging the public not to misconstrue support for the team as a breach of neutrality by any constitutional office holder.
The Service called on the public to place the matter in proper context and disregard what it described as unfounded interpretations, reiterating its commitment to upholding integrity, independence and public trust in the Judiciary.
