Politics

Seniority and experience at the highest bench

The Supreme Court of Ghana, the highest judicial authority in the country, is composed of 13 esteemed justices who hold the final say on all legal matters.

The justices are appointed based on merit, experience, and expertise, each contributing to the development of Ghana’s legal landscape.

Below is a breakdown of the justices, their years of appointment, and their impressive career paths, ordered by seniority.

Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo

She served as the Chief Justice until her suspension yesterday, April 22, 2025, having been appointed to the position in June 2023. Before becoming Chief Justice, she served as a Justice of the Supreme Court from 2019, bringing a wealth of legal experience and a commitment to strengthening Ghana’s judiciary. Her distinguished career has played a significant role in the judicial reform process in Ghana.

Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie

He was appointed to the Supreme Court in June 2008 by President John Kufuor, has been an integral figure in Ghana’s judicial system. Known for his decisive role in the landmark 2013 election petition case, he previously served as a Justice of the Court of Appeal and High Court. His extensive experience has earned him respect both within and outside of Ghana’s judiciary.

Justice Gabriel Pwamang

He joined the Supreme Court in June 2015, appointed by President John Mahama. Prior to his appointment, he was a private legal practitioner and the General Secretary of the People’s National Convention. He was also a member of the Constitution Review Commission from 2010 to 2011, where he contributed to shaping the country’s legal framework.

Justice Avril Lovelace-Johnson

He was appointed in 2019 by former President Nana Akufo-Addo, has had an illustrious career. She served as a High Court judge and Justice of the Court of Appeal before joining the Supreme Court. Known for her contributions to legal education and judicial reforms, Justice Lovelace-Johnson continues to inspire the next generation of legal professionals in Ghana.

Justice Issifu Omoro Tanko Amadu

He was appointed in 2020 by President Akufo-Addo, brought with him substantial judicial experience as a High Court judge and Justice of the Court of Appeal. He is known for his calm demeanor, deep legal knowledge, and dedication to justice.

Justice Professor Henrietta Joy Abena Nyarko Mensa-Bonsu

He was also appointed in 2020 by President Akufo-Addo, is a former law professor at the University of Ghana. A distinguished academic and legal practitioner, she has made significant contributions to human rights and legal reforms, both in Ghana and internationally.

Justice Emmanuel Yonny Kulendi

Born in 1963, he was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2020. Before his appointment, he was a managing partner at Kulendi @ Law and had a reputation as an expert in investment law, commercial litigation, and arbitration.

Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu Asiedu

He has a long and distinguished career, having joined the judiciary in 1996. Appointed to the Supreme Court in December 2022 by President Akufo-Addo, Justice Asiedu has served in various judicial roles, including as a Magistrate, Circuit Court judge, High Court judge, and Court of Appeal judge. His broad experience and academic background make him a vital member of the bench.

Justice George Kingsley Koomson

He was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2023, previously served as a Justice of the Court of Appeal. He is recognized for his integrity, dedication to justice, and his deep commitment to Ghana’s legal system.

Justice Ernest Yao Gaewu

He was appointed in 2023, had a successful career as a High Court judge and in private legal practice before joining the Supreme Court. His experience and involvement in legal development projects have contributed significantly to his legal expertise.

Justice Henry Anthony Kwofie

He joined the Supreme Court in 2024, having previously served as a Justice of the Court of Appeal. Known for his insightful legal reasoning, Justice Kwofie has made valuable contributions to Ghana’s jurisprudence through his rulings and academic engagements.

Justice Yaw Darko Asare

He was appointed in 2024, bringing specialized expertise in maritime law, having served at the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority before establishing his own law firm. His background in both legal practice and academia has strengthened his contributions to the judicial system.

Justice Richard Adjei-Frimpong

He was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2024, is known for his principled approach to law and justice. He has served in various judicial roles and is recognized for his consistency and commitment to upholding the rule of law.

These 13 justices, with their diverse backgrounds and vast experience, ensure that the Supreme Court of Ghana remains a pillar of justice, integrity, and fairness. Each justice plays a critical role in shaping the country’s legal system and in providing final rulings on some of the most significant legal issues facing the nation.

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