Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has attributed the delays in the trial of illegal mining (galamsey) cases to inefficiencies within the prosecutorial process.
Speaking at a recent judicial forum, she acknowledged the concerns raised by the Attorney General regarding the need for faster resolution of galamsey-related cases but pointed out that much of the delay stems from the actions of prosecutors.
Chief Justice Torkornoo emphasized that while the judiciary is committed to ensuring expeditious justice, the prosecution often contributes to delays by failing to properly prepare cases for trial.
She noted that this issue must be addressed if the courts are to function efficiently and meet public expectations.
“Our engagements have shown that delays often arise from the work of prosecutors,” she said, underscoring the importance of their role in moving cases forward.
During her address, the Chief Justice also criticized the excessive use of adjournments and the practice of scheduling cases merely for “mention.
” She urged judges to abandon this model, which she argued only contributes to further delays. “It should not be the norm that parties are made to travel to court only to hear their case mentioned and be told to return on another date,” she asserted.
According to her, this practice wastes valuable time and resources for litigants and undermines the efficiency of the courts.
The Chief Justice urged judges to take more proactive measures to ensure that cases are trial-ready before parties are called to court.
This includes ensuring that dockets are properly reviewed, hearing notices are served, and all backroom processes are functioning smoothly. She stressed that court officials must be diligent in overseeing these procedures to avoid interminable adjournments that stall justice.
Moreover, she called for a shift in how legal applications are handled, particularly regarding the filing of affidavits and legal submissions.
She criticized the practice of allowing lawyers additional time to submit documents that should have been filed on the scheduled hearing date, which further prolongs the judicial process.
Her remarks come in the wake of increasing public concern about the slow pace of justice, particularly in high-profile cases like those involving illegal mining, which have significant economic and environmental impacts on the nation.
The Chief Justice noted that inefficient case management and delays could harm the country’s reputation, deterring investors and ultimately impoverishing the nation, including its public services.
As part of broader reforms, the Chief Justice mentioned that performance standards for judicial promotions have been developed to address the issue of qualifications and efficiency.
A committee, chaired by a Supreme Court judge and including representatives from all levels of the judiciary, has been tasked with preparing standards that will guide the evaluation of judicial performance.
In conclusion, Chief Justice Torkornoo’s address called for a concerted effort from all branches of the justice system, particularly the prosecution, to improve efficiency and expedite the delivery of justice.
Her remarks echo the Attorney General’s call for a more robust approach to handling galamsey cases, as the government seeks to curb the environmental devastation caused by illegal mining.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
