Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has called for sustained efforts to strengthen Ghana’s judiciary, urging stakeholders to preserve its rich legacy while pursuing reforms that will ensure the justice system remains relevant, independent and responsive to the needs of citizens.
Speaking at the Supreme Court @150 Anniversary Lecture Series held at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, the Chief Justice described the Supreme Court’s 150th anniversary as more than a commemoration of history, saying it is a moment to reflect on the institution’s achievements and its responsibility to future generations.
He likened the Supreme Court to a tree planted 150 years ago whose branches now provide justice and protection across the country.
“A seed was planted 150 years ago. Those who planted it believed justice deserved an institution that would outlast any generation. It is our responsibility to preserve that legacy and hand over an even stronger institution to those who come after us,” he said.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie noted that every generation has contributed to shaping the judiciary through its decisions, reforms and commitment to the rule of law, adding that the responsibility of the current generation is one of stewardship rather than ownership.
“Our duty is not to begin the work anew but to preserve what has been entrusted to us, improve what requires reform and pass on a stronger institution to future generations,” he stated.
The Chief Justice also highlighted the complementary relationship between Ghana’s formal judicial system and the institution of chieftaincy, describing both as enduring pillars of justice that serve the common goal of preserving peace and protecting the dignity of citizens.
He said while the Supreme Court derives its authority from the Constitution, the institution of chieftaincy draws its legitimacy from custom and tradition, with both playing vital roles in maintaining social order.
“One speaks through the Constitution and the other through custom, yet both exist for the same enduring purpose—to preserve justice, secure peace and protect the dignity of every person,” he said.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie stressed that the judiciary must continually adapt to changing societal expectations without compromising its core values.
“Every enduring institution must constantly ask itself how it can remain true to its principles while becoming better,” he said.
He urged judicial officers and other stakeholders to view the anniversary not merely as an opportunity to celebrate past achievements but also as a call to pursue continuous improvement in the administration of justice.
According to him, milestones are meaningful because they remind institutions of the work that still lies ahead.
“The greatest chapter of the Supreme Court should never be the one already written. It must always be the one yet to be written,” he said.
The Chief Justice noted that the anniversary lecture sought to deepen discussions on the historical and contemporary relationship between the Supreme Court and the institution of chieftaincy, emphasising that both institutions have long contributed to ensuring that justice prevails over power.
The lecture formed part of activities marking the Supreme Court’s 150th anniversary, being celebrated under the theme, “Honouring the Past, Celebrating the Present and Defining the Future.”
Source:www.kumasimail.com
