The Chief Justice, Mrs. Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, has called for a renewed focus on integrity, competence, and independence within Ghana’s judicial service, stressing their crucial role in driving national development. Speaking at the climax of the Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana’s (JUSAG) 50th-anniversary celebration at the University of Cape Coast, the Chief Justice lamented the deep-rooted exploitation and corruption plaguing the justice system. She expressed concerns that individuals within the judiciary often prioritize personal gain over the pursuit of justice, thus undermining the system’s integrity.
In her address, the Chief Justice urged staff of the Judicial Service to remain guided by their conscience and moral principles in their work at all times. She emphasized that integrity and morality must form the foundation of their professional conduct, underpinned by a broader national commitment to moral principles. She argued that integrity should be paramount and held in high regard within the judiciary.
The event, which drew the participation of judicial staff, lawyers, and various stakeholders, saw the Chief Justice stressing the importance of prioritizing the welfare of vulnerable citizens. She reminded Judicial Service staff of their obligation to adhere to the 1992 Constitution, particularly the directive principles of state policy. Mrs. Torkornoo shared her vision of creating a vibrant working environment within the judiciary, where staff can deliver excellent public service with independence and integrity.
The Chief Justice also highlighted the need for collaboration among judicial staff to reshape public perceptions of corruption and ineptitude within the system. She urged the Service to work together to change these negative perceptions, insisting on the importance of competence, consensus, integrity, and independence in their work. “Let’s help ourselves to be exceptional, work with competence, consensus, integrity, and independence,” she said.
As part of her vision for the future, the Chief Justice reaffirmed her commitment to passing a Constitutional Instrument (CI) aimed at enhancing Ghana’s attractiveness to both domestic and foreign investors. She expressed optimism that the new system would boost investor confidence and contribute to the nation’s economic growth. “I have committed myself to the passage of a constitutional instrument to create a system that would make Ghana attractive to investors. You will see investors coming in; you will see people having confidence in the system to invest and explore,” she stated.
The celebration also featured remarks from Prof. Samuel Ato Duncan, Chief Executive Officer of COA Research and Manufacturing Company Limited, who underscored the judiciary’s vital role in maintaining Ghana’s political stability. Prof. Duncan reiterated the importance of judicial independence and integrity, particularly in resolving electoral disputes and fostering trust among citizens, political candidates, and political parties. He emphasized the need for a collective effort to safeguard the judiciary’s integrity ahead of the December 7 elections.
Prof. Duncan also highlighted three critical elements necessary for sustaining true judicial independence: the separation of powers, impartiality, and security of tenure. He stressed that these factors are essential to ensuring the judiciary’s ability to function without external influence, particularly during the electoral process.
As Ghana prepares for the upcoming national elections, both the Chief Justice and Prof. Duncan called for a collective commitment to upholding the integrity of the country’s judiciary, ensuring that it remains a cornerstone of democracy and justice.
The anniversary event marked an important milestone for JUSAG and provided a platform for the nation’s judicial leadership to reflect on the challenges facing the system, while outlining strategies to improve its effectiveness and reputation.
