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December 5th , 2024

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JUDICIAL SERVICE DISPELS CLAIMS OF POLITICAL INTERFERENCE IN JUDGE TRANSFERS

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7 hours ago




The Judicial Service of Ghana (JSG) has refuted claims that recent judicial transfers, including the reassignment of Justice Priscilla Dikro Ofori, are politically motivated or intended to disrupt ongoing legal cases. The Service clarified in a statement released on December 3, 2024, that such transfers are routine administrative procedures carried out annually or as operational needs arise.  


This clarification comes amid allegations that Justice Ofori’s transfer from Kumasi to Accra was a deliberate attempt to impede the Special Prosecutor’s prosecution of Alex Kwabena Safo Kantanka. Media reports suggested that the move was orchestrated to interfere with the judicial process, claims the JSG has labeled as baseless.  


### Routine Administrative Action  


The JSG explained that judicial transfers are standard practices designed to ensure the effective functioning of the judiciary. The process involves transferring judges across various court levels as part of annual reshuffles or when circumstances necessitate. The Service emphasized that such transfers are never intended to disrupt the resolution of cases or compromise judicial independence.  


According to the JSG, judges being reassigned are required to submit a detailed Case Completion Plan to the Chief Justice’s office. This document outlines pending cases and provides timelines for their resolution. Based on the plan, the Chief Justice issues warrants to enable the judges to deliver judgments on cases close to completion.  


Justice Ofori, whose transfer took effect as part of the 2024 legal year reshuffle, adhered to these protocols. On November 29, 2024, she submitted her Case Completion Plan, which has been approved, authorizing her to conclude cases nearing resolution.  


### Broader Context of Transfers  


The JSG noted that Justice Ofori’s reassignment is not an isolated event. More than 20 judges were transferred in the recent exercise, covering various court levels across the country. These transfers, according to the JSG, are routine and part of efforts to enhance judicial efficiency.  


"The transfer of Justice Priscilla Dikro Ofori is one of many involving judges across different jurisdictions," the statement read. "It is not connected to any alleged interference in the judicial process. The Judicial Service remains committed to maintaining the independence and impartiality of the judiciary."  


The Service expressed concern about the growing trend of politicizing routine administrative actions, cautioning that such narratives could undermine public confidence in the judiciary.  


### Media Accountability  


The JSG also called on media outlets to exercise professionalism in their reporting. It urged journalists to verify information and present factual, balanced narratives to avoid misleading the public. The Service highlighted the critical role of the media in fostering transparency and accountability but stressed that sensationalism and unverified reports could erode trust in public institutions.  


"We urge the media to prioritize accuracy and integrity in their reporting," the statement added. "Sensational claims based on speculation have the potential to mislead the public and damage the reputation of our democratic institutions."  


### A Focus on Judicial Integrity  


This response from the JSG underscores the institution’s commitment to upholding judicial independence and transparency. It aims to reassure Ghanaians that the judiciary operates free from external influence and that all transfers are conducted in line with established protocols.  


Justice Ofori’s transfer has brought into focus the broader issue of judicial integrity and the need for public understanding of how the judiciary operates. The JSG stressed that its primary objective is to ensure justice delivery is efficient, impartial, and accessible to all.  


### Addressing Misconceptions  


The controversy surrounding Justice Ofori’s reassignment has sparked widespread debate, with some questioning the timing of the transfer. However, the JSG’s explanation seeks to address these concerns by providing a detailed account of the processes involved.  


By adhering to its established guidelines, the Judicial Service aims to dispel any notions of political interference and reinforce its role as a neutral arbiter of justice.  


### Moving Forward  


As Ghana approaches the 2024 general elections, the judiciary is expected to play a crucial role in resolving potential electoral disputes. The JSG’s statement serves as a timely reminder of the importance of preserving the independence of the judiciary and ensuring that its actions are not misinterpreted or politicized.  


With the judiciary’s credibility under scrutiny, the JSG has reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all cases, including high-profile ones, are handled with integrity and professionalism. This reaffirmation is expected to instill confidence in the public and stakeholders as the nation prepares for a pivotal election period.  


The Judicial Service's proactive approach to addressing concerns about judicial transfers reflects its dedication to transparency and accountability. As the country navigates its political and legal landscape, the judiciary's impartiality will remain a cornerstone of Ghana’s democratic process.  

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