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The Constitution Review Committee (CRC) last Friday met with the Judiciary to discuss crucial issues relating to the administration of justice in the country.
The meeting, chaired by Acting Chief Justice and Chief Justice-nominee Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, focused on several key areas, including the procedures for appointing and removing Superior Court judges.
The Chairperson of the CRC, Prof. H. Kwesi Prempeh, said the committee and judiciary deliberated on the optimal size and jurisdictions of the Supreme Court and other superior courts.
The meeting with the judiciary, he said, marked a crucial step in the constitutional review process, demonstrating the committee's commitment to inclusive and comprehensive reforms.
He said the CRC and the judiciary also discussed the administrative powers and functions of the Chief Justice, with a particular emphasis on the roles and powers of the office.
“The importance of financial independence for the judiciary was also emphasised, highlighting the need for the judiciary to have autonomy in its financial matters.
“Additionally, the meeting addressed issues related to judicial personnel and the delivery of justice in lower courts,” he said.
Prof. Prempeh said those discussions were part of the CRC's broader effort to gather input from various stakeholders and develop recommendations for constitutional reforms.
The CRC's engagement with the Judiciary was a significant milestone in the constitutional review process, and the committee's efforts were expected to contribute to the development of a more effective and efficient justice system in the country.
The CRC was established by President John Dramani Mahama in January this year to review the 1992 Constitution and recommend reforms to strengthen governance and promote national development.
As part of its engagement process, the CRC conducted targeted stakeholder consultations with specific groups and experts, held zonal public engagements with the general public across different regions, and accepts written submissions and recommendations via email and online platforms.
In an earlier interview with the Secretary to the committee, Dr Rainer Akumperigya said barring any unforeseen circumstances, the CRC’s draft report on the review of the 1992 Constitution will be presented to President Mahama in October this year.
