The Justice for All Programme (JFAP) has significantly reduced the number of inmates on remand in Ghana’s prisons, from 30.57% in 2007 to 12.81% as of March 2, 2026.
Speaking to journalists in Koforidua in the Eastern Region, Court of Appeal Judge Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, who serves as the Steering Committee Chairperson of the programme, detailed the progress made over the past 19 years.
According to her, at the inception of the programme in 2007, Ghana’s total prison population stood at 13,800, out of which 4,218 were remand or pre-trial inmates, representing 30.57% of the total inmate population. The high number of remand prisoners at the time negatively contributed to severe overcrowding in the country’s prisons, which stood at 72.41%.
“It is refreshing and my pleasure to announce to you that, as of yesterday, 2nd March 2026, data from the Ghana Prisons Service Records Units indicates that the total inmate population is 13,620, comprising 1,745 (12.81%) remand inmates and 11,875 (87.19%) convicted prisoners,” Justice Asare-Botwe stated.
She emphasized that over the past 19 years, the Justice for All Programme has had a substantial impact on reducing the remand population, describing the current figure as a major improvement compared to the situation at the programme’s inception.
Article 14(4) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution provides that a person who is arrested or detained must be released either unconditionally or on reasonable conditions if they are not tried within a “reasonable time,” even if further proceedings may follow.
However, Justice Afia Serwaa Asare-Botwe noted that what constitutes a “reasonable time” has not been clearly defined in law. This ambiguity, coupled with institutional and systemic challenges, has resulted in many accused persons spending prolonged periods on remand without trial.
In some instances, detainees have reportedly spent more time awaiting trial than the maximum sentence prescribed for the offences they are accused of committing.
The first Justice for All Programme sitting was held in 2007 under the leadership of former Chief Justice Georgina Theodora Wood. Since then, the initiative has progressively expanded and improved, holding special in-prison court sittings to review cases of long-standing remand inmates.
Fifteen (15 ) remand inmates regained their freedom on bail on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, when the Justice for All Programme (JFAP) held a special in-prison court sittings at the Koforidua Prisons.
Three High Court sittings held in the prison and supervised by Her Ladyship Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, brought relief to the pre-trial detainees who had been awaiting trial for extended periods.
A total of 31 pre-trial cases were presented before the courts during the exercise. Out of these:15 bail applications were granted, 4 inmates were convicted and dealt with accordingly,2 persons were referred for psychiatric treatment, 2 bail applications were refused,while 5 cases were struck out and 3 cases were withdrawn.
Justice Afia Serwah Asare- Botwe said ,the ustice for All Programme has proven to be more than a response to overcrowding.
” It has become a symbol of Ghana’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, safeguarding human rights, and ensuring that justice is not delayed or denied. By facilitating timely hearings for remand prisoners, the programme has reduced unnecessary detention, strengthened public confidence in the justice system, and contributed to prison decongestion”.
She said as the Programme enters a new phase it is important for stakeholders to remember that justice is the cornerstone of peace and development.
“The Justice for All Programme is not just about numbers-it is about people, families, and communities whose lives are touched by fairness and equity. It is about building a justice system that works for all, especially the most vulnerable. Together, let us continue to support and strengthen this initiative, ensuring that Ghana remains a beacon of justice, fairness, and humanity”.
She was of the view that ,as the criminal justice system becomes more efficient, the need for the Justice for All Programme will be reduced.
” The public, NGOs, civil society, and the media are urged to acknowledge the progress made and avoid using outdated information to misrepresent Ghana’s criminal justice system, particularly regarding remand prisoners.
Justice Afia Serwaa Asare Botwe hinted that ,the Judiciary also plans reforms to improve jury and criminal trials, including supporting plea bargaining under Section 162(A) of Act 1079, to help reduce prison overcrowding.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
