Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has launched a Strategic Framework titled “LEADing Justice,” aimed at revolutionizing the Judiciary and the Judicial Service in Ghana. LEAD stands for Law, Ethics, Assets, Due Process, and Digitalization, encapsulating the core pillars of her vision.
In her address at the launch, Chief Justice Torkornoo emphasized the need to change the negative perceptions of corruption, ineptitude, and inefficiency surrounding the Judiciary. She highlighted the importance of training and cultural change strategies to instil ethical models of work within the courts.
The LEADing Justice framework includes plans to provide comprehensive paralegal learning to over 7,000 Judicial Service staff and various professionals involved in the justice system, such as police investigators, prosecutors, and mediators.
Several models of practice and directions for the courts were unveiled during the occasion, including guidelines for alternative dispute resolution, trial procedures, and online publication of judgments.
Chief Justice Torkornoo stressed the importance of reducing human interface in court processes to prevent exploitation and rent-seeking behaviour. She called for independence, impartiality, competence, and integrity among court officials, advocating for partnerships with businesses and donors to support culture-changing re-orientation programs.
The Chief Justice highlighted the need to reform the jury system, aiming to engage the private sector to address issues of prolonged attachment of jurors to courts.
Furthermore, she outlined administrative guidelines and practice directions aimed at increasing transparency, competence, due process, and integrity in court proceedings, covering various aspects of court work.
Chief Justice Torkornoo announced plans to convene a Land Conference to address the plethora of land disputes across the country, aiming to boost investor confidence and economic development.
In line with efforts to modernize the Judiciary, she revealed plans for digitizing paper records and establishing a modern archive center, as well as goals for digital libraries.
Nana Otuo Siriboe II, Chairman of the Council of State, commended the Chief Justice's vision and urged for nationwide awareness creation on its implementation.
The launch of the LEADing Justice framework signals a bold step towards transforming the justice system in Ghana, fostering transparency, efficiency, and integrity.