The Judicial Service has dismissed suggestions that Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie’s recent visit to the Black Stars camp in Canada compromised the independence of the Judiciary, insisting that the visit was a patriotic gesture aimed solely at encouraging the national team ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
In a statement issued on Friday, June 19, 2026, the Judicial Service said it had taken note of public commentary and reactions following the circulation of photographs showing the Chief Justice interacting with members of the national team during their training camp in Canada.
According to the statement, the Chief Justice was in Canada on official duty and, as a football enthusiast and patriotic Ghanaian, took the opportunity to visit the Black Stars to offer words of encouragement and solidarity ahead of their World Cup campaign.
The Judicial Service stressed that the visit should not be interpreted through a political lens or viewed as inconsistent with the constitutional obligations of the office of the Chief Justice.
It explained that judges, although required to maintain the highest standards of independence, integrity and impartiality, remain citizens and members of society who are entitled to participate in ordinary aspects of national life.
“The visit to the Black Stars camp was motivated purely by national pride and support for the country’s representatives on the world stage,” the statement indicated.
The clarification comes after photographs of the Chief Justice with players and officials of the national team generated discussions on social media, with some commentators questioning whether such a visit was appropriate for the head of the Judiciary.
However, the Judicial Service maintained that expressions of patriotism and support for national causes do not undermine judicial independence or affect the ability of judges to discharge their constitutional responsibilities without fear or favour.
It noted that the values of impartiality and integrity that underpin the administration of justice remain firmly intact and are not diminished by participation in activities that promote national unity and cohesion.
The statement emphasised that the Chief Justice’s interaction with the Black Stars had no political undertones and should not be construed as advancing any partisan agenda.
Rather, it said, the gesture reflected the collective hopes and aspirations of Ghanaians as the national team competes on the global stage.
The Judicial Service further reaffirmed its commitment to preserving public confidence in the Judiciary and ensuring that the principles of independence, fairness and accountability continue to guide the work of the courts.
It urged the public to view the visit in its proper context and avoid interpretations that could undermine confidence in one of the country’s key democratic institutions.
The Chief Justice’s visit came as Ghana began its FIFA World Cup campaign, with the Black Stars seeking to advance from the group stage and make a strong impression at the tournament.
