Be Sensitive To Delays In Trials - Akufo-Addo Urges Judges

President Akufo-Addo has called on two newly appointed Justices of the High Court and all other justices of the Superior Courts of Judicature in the nation to be sensitive to delays in the adjudication of cases that are before their courts.

Addressing two newly sworn-in justices of the High Court, at the Jubilee House today, 28 August 2023, after administering the oaths of allegiance and secrecy as well as the Judicial oath, President Akufo-Addo said Ghana is increasingly becoming known as a country where litigation takes long, which image, the President says is not attractive to potential investors.

“I urge you to be sensitive to undue delays that project the image of Ghana as a destination where litigation takes too long. This affects the attractiveness of the country as an investment destination” President Akufo-Addo said in his address to attendees of the swearing in ceremony.

Embracing technology

The president also admonished judges to embrace the case adjudication options that the world of technology offers to them in the modern era. He indicated that adopting technological tools will go a long way to help expedite adjudication of cases and ensure speedy delivery of justice in the country.

“I encourage both of you to take full advantage of the e-justice system [launched in 2021] in order to expedite the conduct of cases that come before you and enhance the management of cases before the court” Akufo-Addo said.

“Judges are advised to be interested in technological innovations that assist with better delivery of justice and efficient management of cases before them. The transparent and efficient delivery of justice builds confidence in citizens, businesses, and the investor community” he added.

Firmly committed

Justice Mrs Dorothy Ayodele Kingsley-Nyinah on her own behalf and on behalf of her colleague Justice Mrs Ama Sefenya Ayittey, registered their appreciation the President, the Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo and the Judicial Council for the confidence reposed in them as Justices of the superior court of judicature.

She pledged that her colleague and her will work hard to safeguard the principles that underpin the country’s legal system such as fairness, impartiality, and adherence to the rule of law.

“We are committed to diligently upholding the principles of justice, selflessly serving, thereby contributing to a more just society through the fair application of the law” Justice Dorothy Ayodele Kingsley-Nyinah said.

“No doubt, our journey may be marked by challenges but these can and will be overcome by our firm commitment to justice, the support of our colleagues and the community of stakeholders who share in the vision of a more just society” she further remarked.

From Wilberforce Asare