Judiciary urged to uphold equity, impartiality, and transparency in justice delivery
From Francis Owusu-Ansah, SUNYANI
Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, Ghana’s Chief Justice, has called on judicial service staff to treat anyone entering the judicial premises with the utmost respect and to make the environment more welcoming for those seeking justice.
She emphasized that service personnel should embody the core values of the judicial service: working with decency, compassion, and dignity. Justice Torkornoo stated that justice should be a tangible reality, not a distant right. It must be available to every citizen in every corner of the country, which underscores the commitment to establishing judicial courts that are accessible without requiring extensive travel.
The Chief Justice also urged the judiciary to uphold the principles of equity and remain impartial in the dispensation of justice.
She advised judicial personnel to strive for equity, transparency, and impartiality as they protect the rights and liberties of citizens.
Additionally, she encouraged judiciary staff to work with humility and maintain integrity as their hallmark in the justice delivery system.
Describing the judiciary as the guardians of the law, entrusted with the responsibility of protecting citizens’ rights and liberties, Justice Torkornoo called on them to conduct themselves responsibly both inside and outside the courtroom.
Justice Torkornoo’s advice was delivered in a speech read on her behalf by Justice Gabriel Nene Kwao Mate-Teye of the Sunyani High Court at the inauguration of the Fiapre Circuit Court and the Chief Justice’s Community Sensitization program over the weekend.
The Sunyani West Municipal Assembly funded the construction of the court.
“Your conduct, both inside and outside the court, has the power to shape lives, communities, and the fabric of society, or cause your registries to deny the rights and entitlements of a nation,” Justice Torkornoo stated.
She indicated that the establishment of the court marked a significant step forward in the nation’s collective journey toward ensuring accessibility and fairness in the dispensation of justice.
“Today, justice has been brought to the doorstep of the people in the area, eliminating the barrier of distance and inconvenience,” she said.
“The inauguration is a testament to the judiciary’s commitment to extending the reach of justice to every corner of the nation.”
Justice Torkornoo expressed her gratitude to the Municipal Assembly for funding the project, noting that the courthouse represents a steadfast commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is not a privilege reserved for the few, but a right accessible to every individual.
She concluded by stating that the court would serve as a reminder that despite any challenges a community may face, there is a forum for resolving conflicts, leading to stronger and more resilient societies.
On her part, Hon. Justina Owusu Banahene, the Bono Regional Minister, urged parents to closely monitor their children’s activities to ensure they are engaged in lawful pursuits that contribute positively to their households.
Addressing concerns about youth pursuing quick wealth through illegal means, she emphasized the importance of living a decent life to avoid entanglements with the justice system, noting that courts exist primarily to administer justice rather than create an impression.
She further advised court users to take responsibility for maintaining the facility and fostering a serene environment for all.
