The Judicial Service has clarified the circumstances surrounding the Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie’s visit to Canada, following public commentary triggered by photographs of him at the Black Stars camp during the ongoing FIFA World Cup.
In a statement issued on Friday, June 19, the Judicial Service said the Chief Justice was in Canada on official vacation and travelled in his private capacity, using his personal resources. It stressed that the trip was not linked to any official state assignment or public expenditure.
According to the statement, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie took the opportunity during his stay to visit the national team and offer encouragement as they compete at the global tournament. The Service described the gesture as a personal, patriotic act in support of the Black Stars.
The clarification follows widespread reactions on social media and other platforms after images of the Chief Justice with the team circulated online, sparking debate about the nature of the visit.
Responding to public concerns, the Judicial Service emphasised that judicial independence does not require judges to isolate themselves from public life or refrain from participating in national activities. It noted that judges, as citizens, are entitled to engage in lawful social and national events, provided such engagements do not compromise their constitutional duties.
The statement further stressed that the Constitution requires judicial officers to uphold independence of mind, impartiality and fidelity to the law, adding that these principles continue to guide the conduct of the Chief Justice and the Judiciary.
It also cautioned against interpreting interactions among holders of constitutional offices—whether official or informal—as evidence of bias or political affiliation, noting that such engagements are common in democratic governance and do not in themselves undermine institutional independence.
Reaffirming the Chief Justice’s commitment to his duties, the Service said Justice Baffoe-Bonnie remains dedicated to the fair and impartial administration of justice to all persons, regardless of political, social or other considerations.
It further highlighted the Black Stars as a unifying national symbol, adding that support for the team should not be misconstrued as compromising the neutrality of any constitutional office holder.
The Judicial Service urged the public to place the matter in proper context and disregard what it described as unfounded interpretations of the Chief Justice’s visit, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining public confidence in the Judiciary through integrity, independence and adherence to the rule of la
