The Supreme Court of Ghana, the apex of the nation’s judicial system, comprises 13 justices who hold the ultimate authority in interpreting and applying the law. Their decisions are binding on all lower courts, ensuring consistency and uniformity in the application of legal principles. The Court’s jurisdiction encompasses a broad spectrum of legal matters, from criminal and civil disputes to administrative law cases, all guided by the provisions of the 1992 Constitution. The justices are appointed by the President, subject to parliamentary approval, and serve until retirement age. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences contribute to a rich and nuanced understanding of the law.
Leading the Supreme Court is Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, appointed in June 2023. Justice Torkornoo brings a wealth of experience, having served on the Supreme Court since 2019 and having a distinguished legal career prior to her appointment. Her leadership is crucial in guiding the court’s deliberations and shaping the trajectory of Ghanaian jurisprudence. Alongside Chief Justice Torkornoo are 12 other justices, each with their own unique contributions to the legal landscape.
Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, appointed in 2008, brings years of experience from his time in the Court of Appeal and the High Court. He is particularly remembered for his role in the landmark 2013 election petition case. Justice Gabriel Pwamang, appointed in 2015, offers a unique perspective, having transitioned from private legal practice and a political background as General Secretary of the People’s National Convention to the judiciary. He also served on the Constitution Review Commission, further enhancing his understanding of constitutional law.
Justice Avril Lovelace-Johnson, appointed in 2019, brings a deep understanding of the court system from her experience as a High Court and Court of Appeal judge. She is also recognized for her contributions to legal education and judicial reform, demonstrating a commitment to strengthening the justice system as a whole. Justice Issifu Omoro Tanko Amadu, also appointed in 2020, contributes a strong foundation built on years of private legal practice and service in both the High Court and Court of Appeal.
Justice Professor Henrietta Joy Abena Nyarko Mensa-Bonsu, appointed in 2020, brings a distinguished academic background as a former law professor at the University of Ghana, where she played a crucial role in national and international legal reform and human rights work. She blends academic expertise with practical legal experience, enriching the court’s deliberations. Justice Emmanuel Yonny Kulendi, also appointed in 2020, brings expertise in investment law, commercial litigation, and arbitration from his years in private practice, providing the court with valuable insights in complex commercial matters.
Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu Asiedu, appointed in 2022, boasts a long and varied judicial career, having risen through the ranks from Magistrate to Circuit Court judge, High Court judge, and finally to the Court of Appeal before his appointment to the Supreme Court. His comprehensive experience across different levels of the judiciary provides a broad perspective on the application of law. Justice George Kingsley Koomson, appointed in 2023, brought to the Supreme Court his experience from the Court of Appeal, known for his integrity and commitment to justice.
Justice Ernest Yao Gaewu, appointed in 2023, combined experience from private legal practice with his service as a High Court judge, adding another layer of diverse experience to the bench. His active involvement in community and legal development initiatives reflects his commitment to access to justice. Justice Henry Anthony Kwofie, appointed in 2024, brought his experience from the Court of Appeal, known for his strong legal reasoning and contributions to Ghanaian jurisprudence.
Justice Yaw Darko Asare, appointed in 2024, brought his specialized knowledge in maritime law and experience from both the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority and private practice, adding a unique dimension to the court’s expertise. Having transitioned from the Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court, his legal insights further enriched the court’s perspective. Finally, Justice Richard Adjei-Frimpong, also appointed in 2024, brings his extensive judicial experience and his reputation for a principled approach to law, complementing the varied expertise within the Supreme Court. Each of these justices, through their diverse experiences and backgrounds, contributes significantly to the tapestry of Ghanaian jurisprudence.
