Avoid actions that undermine integrity of justice delivery - CJ advises judicial service

The 67th Legal Year has begun with a call on staff of the Judicial Service to avoid actions that can undermine the integrity of justice delivery, especially in this crucial election year. 

The Chief Justice (CJ), Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, who made the call, emphasised that any compromise in the delivery of justice could destabilise the very foundation of the nation.

She also reminded judges to ensure that their judicial decisions were grounded in law and due process.

The Chief Justice was addressing lawyers, judges, staff of the Judicial Service and other stakeholders last Saturday at a gathering to officially commence the 67th legal year.

Justice Torkornoo said unlike the executive and legislative, the judiciary was the only non-political arm of government, hence the need to act with integrity and follow due process.

"We are the only arm of government that is not involved in politics, and we are supposed to sit in between the legislature and executive. This is why they pay so much attention to us and they are anxious to know what we will do, what we think etc. But you and I know that our decisions can only be grounded in law and due process.

"I need to remind us that the peace of this country will depend on us discharging our role with justice. A court clerk who behaves by compromising justice and tell people that I am able to take money to a judge, when you know it is not true, you can shake up the whole foundation of the nation.

“Please carry it in your heart that you make a difference. One person makes a difference, together we will make a difference. Let's go into the year to make Ghana safe, secure and prosperous,” she said.

The gathering was preceded by a special church service at the Most Holy Trinity Cathedral in Accra. 

Service

Organised by the Judicial Service, the special service was to officially signify the start of the 2024/2025 legal year.

It was on the theme: "Building the pillars of justice delivery through leadership, innovation and technology

The legal year is from October to July and it commences after the legal vacation (August-September) when the justices of the superior courts go on recess.

Chief Justice Torkonoo announced that in the coming year, the digitalisation agenda of the courts would continue unabated.

Under the leadership, innovation and technology pillars, she said the Judicial Service would work earnestly towards improving the culture of leadership and innovation in the way it had traditionally worked, and also build on the established structures of the virtual courts, and other electronic processes which gave meaning to an e-justice system.

“I enjoin all stakeholders in the justice delivery sector to stay committed to making democracy work in our nation through being disciplined, competent and effective in the work done in and around the courts,” she said. 

Homily

In his homily, the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church, Ghana, the Most Rev. Dr Paul Kwabena Boafo, highlighted the vital role of justice in the upcoming elections.

He reminded players in the justice delivery sector that justice was not just a legal term but lifeline that ensured that every voter had a fair chance to participate, no matter their background.

“You are a crucial stakeholder in ensuring a peaceful election this December 2024. This year, it is imperative that we embrace our roles in fostering a just electoral system.

We have established legal frameworks in place to address grievances effectively.

“This year, let justice flow, and may we all witness peace in our nation. When we build trust and affirm that we are credible, impartial individuals committed to consistent rulings on fairness and equity, we can support everyone—whether from the city or the village, regardless of background.

Only through this commitment can we achieve prosperity and peaceful coexistence in our nation. Let justice flow,” he added.

He bemoaned the challenges posed by illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, and the devastating impact it was having on the country’s land and water bodies.

They called on all to protect the environment, adding: “The level of injustice to our ecosystem, forests, lands, and water bodies in Ghana is alarming and this concern affects us all.

“The destruction is human-induced, often supported by powerful individuals and officials who exploit vulnerable youth in the process. Just last week, I learned of cases in court that have lingered for days, months, and even years.

It is our responsibility to ensure the security of our nation,” Rev Dr Boafo said.