A former Director of Communication of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Yaw Adomako Baafi has stated that no serious country in the world would have appointed Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Chief Justice following his admission during his vetting that he sentenced notorious armed robber Ataa Ayi to 70 years in prison because he feared for his safety and that of his family.
Speaking in an interview on UTV’s Adekye Nsroma, Yaw Adomako Baafi argued that Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s admission during his vetting should have disqualified him from becoming Chief Justice.
He said the decision to impose a lengthy prison sentence on Ataa Ayi out of fear for his personal safety raised serious questions about Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s suitability to lead the judiciary.
“First thing that tarnishes his image was his admission that he sentenced Ataa Ayi for more years due to fear for his life. If there is any serious country in this world, we wouldn’t have such a Chief Justice to lead the judiciary,” he said.
Yaw Adomako Baafi also questioned the circumstances surrounding the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo, saying the development raises several questions.
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Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, during his vetting in Parliament, revealed that he once sentenced notorious armed robber Ataa Ayi to 70 years in prison because he feared the convict would attack him and his family upon his release.
Explaining his decision, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie said that although judges are guided by sentencing principles, they sometimes have to go beyond the guidelines in exceptional circumstances.
“I sentenced Ataa Ayi to 70 years in prison because I feared he would attack me and my family upon his release. You see, there are so many reasons. The magistrates have the sentencing guidelines, but sometimes they have to go beyond that,” he said.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie explained that, at the time of sentencing, he believed a shorter prison term could have endangered his family after the convict’s release.
“No serious country would have appointed Baffoe Bonney as Chief Justice after the Atta Ayi incident.” — Yaw Adomako Baafi#UTVGhana pic.twitter.com/JYZ5qgcq7J
— UTV Ghana (@utvghana) September 7, 2026 AM #TrendingGH: 'Revisit the case' - Netizens react to controversial court ruling