The Minister for the Interior, Alhaji Muntaka Mohammed, has held discussions with the Acting Chief Justice, His Lordship Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, on pressing national issues, including illegal mining (galamsey), narcotics-related crimes, and the Justice for All Programme.
In a statement shared on his official Facebook page, the minister said the meeting underscored the need for stronger collaboration between the Ministry of the Interior and the Judiciary to address challenges undermining national security, the environment, and access to justice.
Alhaji Muntaka highlighted the devastating impact of galamsey and narcotics on communities and the environment. He proposed the establishment of designated courts to fast-track prosecutions related to environmental degradation and drug offenses.
“Both the Ministry of the Interior and the Judiciary are partners in this fight and must work hand-in-hand to achieve meaningful results,” he noted.
The minister also called for a comprehensive review of the Justice for All Programme, stressing the need for stakeholders to assess existing gaps, identify challenges, and propose reforms to strengthen the initiative for greater effectiveness.
Responding, the Acting Chief Justice expressed appreciation for the engagement and reaffirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to addressing the issues raised. He assured that plans to establish dedicated courts for galamsey, environmental degradation, and narcotics-related offenses were under serious consideration and would be rolled out soon.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie further urged prioritization of the Community Service Bill, which seeks to introduce community service as an alternative sentencing option. He explained that the legislation would provide a rehabilitative approach to justice, reduce prison overcrowding, and foster community reintegration for offenders.
The meeting reflects renewed efforts to align the work of the Judiciary and the Interior Ministry in tackling some of the country’s most urgent legal and social challenges.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
