Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has cautioned judges against the misuse of judicial authority, warning that such conduct weakens public confidence in the courts and extinguishes the hope of justice for citizens who seek redress.

He delivered the caution at the swearing-in ceremony of 52 newly appointed Circuit Court judges on Thursday, January 22, 2026. The group comprised 40 magistrates elevated to the circuit bench and 12 lawyers appointed from the Bar.

Addressing the judges, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie urged them to uphold the highest standards of integrity, competence and independence in the discharge of their duties, stressing that judicial decisions have far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, businesses and entire communities.

“The authority you exercise is not self-derived,” the Chief Justice said. “It is power delegated by the people through the Constitution, and it must be exercised carefully, judiciously and strictly in accordance with the law.”

He emphasised that any abuse of judicial power undermines the foundations of the rule of law and erodes confidence in the justice system, reminding the judges that litigants come before the courts not merely with cases, but with hope.

The Chief Justice further urged the judges to ensure that their rulings are clear, well-reasoned and grounded in sound legal principles, while avoiding any conduct that could compromise their impartiality or create perceptions of impropriety.