Finance Minister explores 100% IGF retention by Judiciary
The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has revealed that he is exploring a proposal to allow the Judiciary to retain and utilise 100 per cent of its internally generated funds (IGF) as part of efforts to address urgent operational challenges within the justice delivery system.
It will also help the Judiciary to a greater extent achieve financial independence.
Dr Forson made the disclosure when the Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe Bonnie, paid a courtesy call on him yesterday, to discuss ways of strengthening collaboration between the Judiciary and the Executive arm of government.
The Finance Minister reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with the Judiciary and the Ministry of Justice to resolve the challenges confronting the courts, noting that the proposed IGF retention measure is intended to enhance the Judiciary’s flexibility in responding to immediate needs.
Meeting
The meeting was an opportunity for the Chief Justice to formally express the Judiciary’s appreciation to the Ministry of Finance for its continued support.
In attendance were a Supreme Court Judge, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, the Acting Director of the Ghana School of Law, Prof. Raymond Atuguba, and the Judicial Secretary, Ahmed Musah.
Also present at the meeting was the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine.
Support
In briefing the meeting on challenges in the administration of justice, the Chief Justice identified court congestion as a major impediment to effective justice delivery in Ghana.
He noted that several interventions are currently being developed to address this challenge.
Justice Baffoe Bonnie also highlighted concerns about working conditions within the Judiciary, stressing the need for sustained institutional support to enhance efficiency and outcomes across the justice sector.
