Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has reiterated her proposal to increase the number of judges at the Supreme Court, citing the court’s heavy workload and the need to effectively serve the nation’s justice needs.
In a letter to President Akufo-Addo, Justice Torkornoo highlighted the Supreme Court’s current operational challenges, including its limited sitting days and heavy caseload.
The court currently operates three days a week, alternating between panel sittings and single judge sittings, resulting in a minimum of 15 cases heard per day and approximately 180 matters addressed monthly.
The Chief Justice warned that failing to increase the number of judges would lead to delayed decision-making and delivery, potentially resulting in a significant backlog of cases.
She expressed concern that justices may be forced to sit every week, participate in multiple panels, and triple the number of hearings, without making a significant dent in the backlog.
Justice Torkornoo’s proposal seeks to address the Supreme Court’s workload and output, ensuring the court can efficiently serve the nation’s justice needs.
The move has sparked debate in legal circles, with some supporting the expansion and others raising concerns about the potential impact on the judiciary’s independence and resources.
Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has intensified its criticism of President Akufo-Addo and the Chief Justice over the recent nominations accusing the government of foul play.
At a press conference in Accra, NDC General Secretary, Fifi Kwetey, alleged that the appointments were made without consultation and aimed to manipulate the judiciary for political gain.
“This is a clear case of political interference and a brazen attempt to stack the Supreme Court with judges sympathetic to the ruling party,” Fiifi Kwetey stated.
The NDC scribe questioned the timing and motivations behind the appointments, citing concerns about the potential impact on the court’s independence and impartiality.
“We will not stand idly by while the government undermines our democratic institutions,”He vowed.
The opposition party’s accusations have sparked a heated debate about the judiciary’s independence and the government’s role in appointing judges.
The development comes as Ghana prepares for the December 2024 elections, with the NDC vowing to contest the appointments and ensure the integrity of the judiciary.
