President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Tuesday swore in 16 newly appointed justices of the Court of Appeal with a charge to help prioritise and clear the backlog of cases that are pending in courts.
The President told them that as new justices of the Court of Appeal, they should play a key role in helping to reform and modernise the country’s judicial system to achieve efficiency, transparency and accessibility of justice.
The new judges are, Justices Charles Gyamfi Danquah, Gifty Dekyem, Kofi Akrowiah, Richard Mac Koggyapwah, Kwasi Boakye, Alexander Osei Tut, and France Obiri.
Others include Lydia Osei Marfo, Aboagye Tandoh, Agyeman Gyasi Jawhary, Yaa Onyameye Gyakobo, Francis Koffie and Charles William Leopold Bartels Zwennes.
The rest are Barima Yaw Kodie Oppong, David Kwabena Adade Boafo and Dr Poku Adusei.
President Akufo-Addo administered three oaths, (Secrecy, Allegiance, and Office) to them.
President Akufo-Addo said despite the enormous work done with the judicial system, a lot of reforms need to be carried out.
“As justices of the Court of Appeal, you will be at the forefront of those efforts and your contributions will be pivotal in shaping the future of our judiciary and of our society,” the President told them.
He added: “One of the key challenges we face is the need to address the backlog of cases that continue to burden our courts. Justice delayed as you know, is justices denied.”
President Akufo-Addo said innovative solutions must be found to expedite the resolution of cases and ensure that justice is delivered on time.
That, the President said, would require not only efficient case management but also the adoption of new technologies and practices that can streamline our judicial processes.
President Akufo-Addo admonished both new and old judges to improve themselves and stay up-to-date with new trends and best practices in the legal profession.
“Education and continued self-development are equally paramount [just like the independence of the judiciary is]. The legal landscape is constantly evolving and it is essential that judges remain abreast with new developments and best practices,” President Akufo-Addo said.
He urged them to engage in continuous training, participate in judicial conferences and workshops, and seek other opportunities for professional growth.
Justice Charles Gyamfi Danquah on behalf of his colleagues, assured the President and Ghanaians to uphold the rule of law and ensure that “justice, equity, and fair play are administered and done to all manner of persons.”
Rex Mainoo Yeboah, ISD
