The Chief Justice of Ghana, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, has emphasised that a strong and efficient judicial system is essential for business growth and investor confidence, stating that no business environment can thrive without trust in the justice system.
Speaking on the second day of the Kwahu Business Forum on Saturday, April 4, 2026, the Chief Justice noted that businesses depend heavily on the legal system to enforce contracts, protect property rights, and resolve disputes fairly and efficiently.
“No matter how creative or well-funded a business may be, it cannot truly thrive without one fundamental ingredient: trust,” he said.
He explained that trust in any economy is built on three key assurances: that contracts will be honoured, property will be protected, and disputes will be resolved fairly, predictably, and without unnecessary delays.
According to him, these are not merely legal theories but practical expectations of investors, entrepreneurs and business owners, and they form the core responsibility of the judiciary.
“These are not just legal principles written in books. They are the everyday expectations of every investor, every entrepreneur, and every business owner, no matter how small. And these assurances are quite simply the daily work of the judiciary,” he stated.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie also indicated that the judiciary is repositioning itself to play a more active role in Ghana’s economic development by helping to create a business-friendly environment grounded in the rule of law.
“When I assumed office, I made a conscious decision that the judiciary should no longer be a distant institution sitting in the background of our national life,” he said. “Instead, we have chosen to become an active partner in creating a genuinely business-friendly environment, one firmly anchored in the rule of law.”
He further warned that inefficiencies within the justice system have direct economic consequences, including discouraging investment and slowing economic growth.
“We recognise that when justice is delayed, it’s not just a legal problem; it becomes an economic cost. When enforcement is uncertain, it does not merely frustrate parties; it discourages investment and holds back growth,” he added.
His remarks formed part of broader discussions at the Kwahu Business Forum focused on improving the business environment, attracting investment, and strengthening private sector growth in Ghana.