The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has issued a formal apology to the Judiciary following the tense exchanges that unfolded during the vetting of Chief Justice nominee, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, on Monday, November 10, 2025.
Addressing the House on Tuesday, November 11, the Speaker expressed deep regret over the incident and reaffirmed Parliament’s unwavering respect for the Judiciary as a coequal arm of government under the 1992 Constitution.
“Parliamentary rules caution members against imputing improper motives or using words that are disrespectful or likely to cause offence,” Mr Bagbin stated. “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 emphasised that the judiciary’s independence is sacrosanct, adding that no person or institution has the authority to control or direct its decisions. The Speaker further reminded members of the doctrine of separation of powers, urging mutual respect and restraint among the executive, legislature, and judiciary.
“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.
Mr Bagbin disclosed that he has instructed the leadership of the Appointments Committee to take note of the confrontation and ensure that future vettings uphold the highest standards of civility, objectivity, and institutional respect.
He reiterated Parliament’s commitment to maintaining a harmonious relationship with the Judiciary, which he described as vital to the country’s democratic stability and governance.
“On your behalf, I extend our deepest apologies and assurances of Parliament’s continued respect for the Judiciary and its esteemed members,” the Speaker declared.
Concluding his remarks, Mr Bagbin warned lawmakers to uphold decorum in subsequent deliberations, stressing that he would not tolerate further breaches of parliamentary conduct.
“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 cautioned, drawing murmurs across the chamber.
The Speaker’s apology comes after a walkout by the Minority caucus during the vetting of Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, which led to heated exchanges between members of the Appointments Committee and the Majority side of the House.
Click the link Puretvonline.com | WhatsApp Channel to join the WhatsApp channel
GOT A STORY?
Contact/WhatsApp: +233243201960 or manuelnkansah33@gmail.com