Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has acknowledged ongoing challenges within Ghana’s justice system, cautioning that persistent delays, high costs, and limited access continue to erode public confidence in the courts.
Speaking at the launch of the 150th anniversary of the Supreme Court of Ghana in Accra on Thursday, April 16, the Chief Justice admitted that despite progress made over the years, significant gaps remain.
“We cannot say that all is well. There are still delays, there are still barriers, there are still moments where justice feels distant to those who need it,” he stated, adding that confidence in the system is shaken when justice comes too late or becomes too expensive.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie emphasised that the judiciary must move beyond symbolic reforms and commit to real, measurable improvements that enhance justice delivery.
“The next chapter of our court must not be rhetoric. It must not be reform for its own sake. It must be a deep commitment to excellence in the delivery of justice for all,” he said.
Outlining his vision for the future, the Chief Justice called for a justice system that is faster, clearer, and more accessible to ordinary citizens.
He warned that prolonged delays undermine the very essence of justice, stressing that “delayed justice is diluted justice.” He also highlighted the need for simplicity in legal processes, arguing that “obscure justice is inaccessible justice.”
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie further underscored the importance of making the courts more accessible to the public, noting that when justice feels out of reach, it effectively denies citizens their rights.
“Closer to the people, because distant justice is denied justice,” he added.
