Former President John Mahama has called for judicial reforms to restore trust in Ghana's justice system. He noted that the diminishing public trust in the Judiciary requires urgent action.
Speaking at the 3rd Lawyers conference organized by the NDC Lawyers Association in Akosombo, Mahama said the reforms are needed but must be done in collaboration with the Judiciary, not imposed by the Executive. He cited opinion polls showing that the Judiciary's reputation is at an all-time low.
"There is a low level of credibility with the Judiciary. People feel there is undue monetary influence that affects judgments in civil and criminal cases, as exposed by Anas' investigative piece that led to the dismissal of some judges," he said.
Mahama observed that the Judiciary's influence has turned into partisanship, manifesting in "bizarre" decisions on politically related cases. "It has gone beyond monetary inducement. Now, it is also seen as partisan and many feel justice is not served in many cases," he said.
He charged the NDC's legal team to look at how the Executive and Judiciary can work together to improve the Judiciary's image. "If the Judiciary's image improves, it will benefit the judges and Judicial Service workers," he said.
Mahama also assured that any of his appointees accused of corruption under his next administration would face the law. He said they would be handed over to the constitutionally mandated institutions to be dealt with.
Public trust in the Judiciary has deteriorated due to perceptions of monetary influence affecting judgments and growing partisanship within the system, according to Mahama. He cited opinion polls showing the Judiciary's reputation is at an all-time low with the public feeling justice is not always served.
Mahama stressed that while reforms are needed, they must be a collaborative effort between the Executive and Judiciary rather than being imposed top-down. The goal of the reforms should be to restore the Judiciary's independence and credibility which is essential for Ghana's democracy and rule of law, he said.
Improving the Judiciary's image through these reforms would benefit judges, lawyers and the entire justice system, Mahama noted. He charged the NDC's legal team to explore how the Executive and Judiciary can work together to implement meaningful changes.
Mahama also pledged that any of his appointees accused of corruption in his next administration would be investigated and prosecuted through the proper legal channels. He emphasized accountability and the rule of law would be top priorities in his next term.
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