The Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, has sworn in 52 Circuit Court judges, urging them to introduce digital systems to improve efficiency and access to justice.

He said the adoption of technology had become necessary in modern justice delivery, adding that digital case management systems and electronic recording of proceedings were essential tools to reduce delays.

“Justice delayed is justice denied. While quality must never be sacrificed for speed, undue delay weakens confidence in the justice system,” he said.

The ceremony, which took place at the Law Court Complex in Accra yesterday, followed appointments made on the recommendation of the Judicial Council and approved by the President. In all, 52 persons—comprising magistrates and lawyers—were appointed to fill vacancies at Circuit Courts across the country.

Of the total, 40 were promoted from the magistracy, while 12 were lawyers drawn from private legal practice.

Responsibility

The Chief Justice said the appointment of the judges marked the assumption of constitutional responsibility to interpret and apply the law fairly and independently.

He said judicial authority was delegated by the people through the Constitution and must be exercised strictly in accordance with the law, adding that abuse of such authority undermined public confidence in the justice system.

He explained that the Circuit Court played a key role in the administration of justice, as many citizens encountered the justice system for the first time at that level.

“The courtroom must always be a place where dignity is upheld and justice is not only done but manifestly seen to be done,” he said.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie further said the Judicial Service had invested in information and communication technology to improve transparency and access to justice, and urged the judges to fully embrace the reforms.

He urged the judges to remain firm in the face of pressure and to decide cases solely based on the law and evidence.

Support

The President of the Ghana Bar Association, Efua Ghartey, congratulated the judges and assured them of the support of the Bar.

She reminded the judges of the need to preserve the independence and integrity of the courts, saying impartial justice was central to democratic governance.

“The judiciary is an indispensable institution in any democratic society,” she said.

Gratitude

A representative of the Circuit Court judges, Kofi Owusu Sekyere, expressed gratitude to the Judicial Council and the President for the appointments.

He pledged the commitment of the judges to discharge their duties responsibly and to work with dedication to meet the expectations of the office.

“We are most grateful for the honour done us.

We, therefore, accept the duty imposed on us, and promise to work harder than before,” he said.

He further expressed appreciation to family members and friends for their support throughout their professional journeys.