JUSAG raises alarm over more than 130 courts without magistrates
Its president, Samuel Afotey Otu, warned that more than 130 courts nationwide were without magistrates and urged the government to speed up appointments to support the efficient administration of justice.
Urgent recruitment, better salaries and stronger security are needed to address pressures facing Ghana’s courts, the Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) has said.
Its president, Samuel Afotey Otu, warned that more than 130 courts nationwide were without magistrates and urged the government to speed up appointments to support the efficient administration of justice.
The appeal came at the 45th Annual General Meeting of the Association of Magistrates and Judges of Ghana (AMJG) in Accra on Thursday, where discussions focused on balancing judicial responsibilities with personal wellbeing.
For JUSAG, protection from emerging threats was another priority. Mr Otu said social media made it easier for the names, images and activities of judicial officers to circulate publicly, potentially exposing them, court staff and their families to additional risks.
He urged the public to treat judicial officers with respect and courtesy, saying they would continue their work despite criticism.
Mr Otu proposed police escorts or orderlies for members of the lower bench, arguing that judges and magistrates needed similar protection even though they served at different levels.
He also asked the Attorney-General to review their remuneration and conditions of service and develop a policy addressing their specific needs.
Increasing salaries for lower-court judges, he said, would help narrow the pay gap between them and judges of the Superior Courts.
The JUSAG president separately pressed the government to act on the Association’s lawful demands relating to Article 149 of the 1992 Constitution.
Mr Otu urged the Judiciary and the government to build a working environment in which judicial officers and staff could serve with dignity while enjoying fulfilling personal lives.
The conference was held under the theme “Balance Beyond the Bench: Harmonising Duty, Justice and Life.” Dr Ayine commended the Association for encouraging attention to the person behind judicial office, beyond judgments, courtrooms and case statistics.
