Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has cautioned judges against the misuse of judicial authority, warning that such actions weaken public trust in the courts and shatter the expectations of people who turn to the justice system for fairness.

He delivered the message during the induction of 52 newly appointed Circuit Court judges on Thursday, January 22, 2026. The group included 40 magistrates elevated to the Circuit Court and 12 lawyers appointed directly from the Bar.

Speaking to the judges, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie reminded them that judicial authority is not personal power but a responsibility entrusted to them by the Constitution on behalf of the people. He stressed that this authority must always be exercised carefully, lawfully, and with a deep sense of duty.

According to him, when judges misuse their office, it damages the credibility of the Judiciary and weakens the rule of law. He noted that individuals who appear before the courts come not just with cases, but with expectations, the expectation that justice will be done.

He urged the judges to anchor their work on three core values: integrity, professionalism, and independence. He emphasized that integrity should reflect not only in official duties but also in personal conduct, and advised them to avoid relationships or situations that could call their neutrality into question.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie also encouraged the judges to deliver decisions that are clear, thoughtful, and firmly rooted in sound legal reasoning. He pointed out that judicial decisions have far-reaching consequences, affecting lives, families, businesses, and entire communities.

He concluded by reminding them that judicial authority is not self-created but derived from the people, and must be exercised with humility, responsibility, and long-term commitment to justice.