Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has acknowledged persistent challenges within Ghana’s justice system, warning that delays, high costs, and barriers to access continue to undermine public confidence in the courts.
Speaking at the launch of the 150th anniversary of the Supreme Court of Ghana in Accra on Thursday, April 16, the Chief Justice said it would be inaccurate to suggest that the system is without flaws.
“We cannot say that all is well. There are still delays, there are still barriers, there are still moments where justice feels distant to those who need it,” he stated, adding that confidence in the system is shaken when justice comes too late or becomes too expensive.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie stressed that the next phase of the court’s development must go beyond rhetoric and superficial reforms, calling instead for a meaningful and sustained commitment to excellence in the delivery of justice.
“The next chapter of our court must not be rhetoric. It must not be reform for its own sake. It must be a deep commitment to excellence in the delivery of justice for all,” he said.
He outlined a vision for a more responsive judiciary, emphasizing that the future of the court must prioritise speed, clarity, and accessibility.
According to him, delays in the justice system weaken its impact, noting that “delayed justice is diluted justice.” He further argued that legal processes must be simplified to ensure clarity, stating that “obscure justice is inaccessible justice.”
The Chief Justice also underscored the importance of bringing justice closer to the people, warning that when the system feels distant, it effectively denies citizens their rights.
“Closer to the people, because distant justice is denied justice,” he added.
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