Judicial Service to reopen Court of Appeal nationwide

In a statement made by Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo of Ghana on Thursday (4 April), it was revealed that the Judicial Service plans to resume Court of Appeal sittings nationwide in April 2024. The suspension of some Court of Appeal sessions in 2020 was due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

During a meeting with the Judicial Press Corps, the Chief Justice discussed various topics and provided details on the upcoming Court of Appeal operations. Specifically, she mentioned that the Court of Appeal in Kumasi would now handle cases for Ashanti, Bono East and West, and Ahafo Regions. Additionally, measures were being put in place to facilitate virtual hearings at the Court of Appeal in Kumasi to better cater to individuals in Tamale and the northern part of the country.

Furthermore, Chief Justice Torkornoo explained that the Court of Appeal in Kumasi would also manage appeals from the Western North region due to its proximity. Additionally, she disclosed that the Central and Western Court of Appeal would be relocated to Sekondi, instead of Cape Coast, due to the deteriorated facilities that require new infrastructure.

These decisions were made following extensive discussions with various stakeholders in the justice delivery system, including Parliament and the Ghana Bar Association. The Chief Justice also mentioned ongoing projects within the Judicial Service, such as renovating washrooms in the Supreme Court Building, which are currently 70% completed.

In conclusion, Chief Justice Torkornoo informed that she would be sharing her vision for effective justice delivery on 8 April 2024, launching an outreach program aimed at providing seamless access to justice for all.