Supreme Court of Ghana has been urged to make public legal literacy and access to justice central to its mandate as it marks 150 years of existence, with a strong call for reforms that bring the courts closer to ordinary citizens.
Speaking at the anniversary celebrations, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo stressed that justice must not remain distant or difficult to understand for the average Ghanaian. She warned that even the most well-reasoned judgments would fail in purpose if citizens cannot comprehend court processes, afford legal services, or trust the system.
According to her, outreach, the use of plain language, and openness must be treated as essential duties of the judiciary rather than optional add-ons. “If people cannot access or understand justice, then the system is not working as it should,” she indicated.
Touching on the evolution of Ghana’s legal system, she called for a careful balance in jurisprudence—one that remains open to global legal developments while staying firmly grounded in Ghanaian values and experiences. She noted that learning from other jurisdictions must not come at the expense of national identity.
Referencing insights from Tsatsu Tsikata, she underscored the responsibility of judges to remain at the forefront of justice and legality, describing the Court as the country’s ultimate safeguard against abuse of power and constitutional violations.
She further highlighted the growing relevance of technology, urging the judiciary to embrace artificial intelligence and digital tools to reduce delays in case handling and judgment delivery. She cautioned that slow justice increases costs and limits access, effectively excluding many citizens from seeking legal redress.
The Deputy Chief of Staff also reaffirmed the enduring relevance of landmark rulings such as Tuffour v Attorney-General, Sallah v Attorney-General, and NPP v Attorney-General, describing them as “living instructions” that continue to define the Court’s purpose and direction.
She called for a more inclusive justice system that prioritizes the needs of women, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities. Justice, she emphasized, must never become the preserve of a privileged few.
In conclusion, she urged the judiciary to safeguard its independence, uphold high standards in judicial appointments, and maintain a culture of excellence, noting that the strength of institutions ultimately depends on the integrity and character of the individuals who serve within them.
