Acting CJ directs registrars to submit new cases for court assignment

New directive seeks to streamline case management and judicial efficiency

In a significant move aimed at tightening judicial oversight and enhancing case management, Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has issued a sweeping directive requiring all newly filed cases and applications in the country’s superior courts to be submitted directly to his office. This directive, dated April 23, 2025, signals a shift toward centralized control of court assignments and scheduling.

Directive extends across Superior Courts

The directive was communicated through the Deputy Judicial Secretary to Registrars of the High Courts, Courts of Appeal, and the Supreme Court. It mandates that any fresh filings—be they civil, criminal, or administrative applications—must be brought to the immediate attention of the Acting Chief Justice.

This marks a departure from previous practices, where registrars often had discretion in assigning cases or determining initial hearing dates. Under the new regime, those responsibilities will now fall under the exclusive purview of the Chief Justice’s office.

Judge empanelling and scheduling now centralized

Crucially, the directive also places the power to schedule hearings and empanel judges squarely in the hands of the Acting CJ. This will be particularly relevant in situations where multiple courts are available, as it enables the Chief Justice to determine which judges hear which matters.

By centralizing the scheduling process, the directive aims to address common delays and potential inconsistencies in how cases are distributed or prioritized. It also offers the judiciary more flexibility in balancing workloads and reducing backlogs.

Previous guidelines suspended

The memo emphasized that this new arrangement supersedes all existing guidelines regarding court assignments and hearing timetables. It is to remain in effect until further notice, signaling the Acting CJ’s intention to maintain close oversight of judicial operations during his tenure.

Strict compliance ordered

Court registrars nationwide have been instructed to strictly comply with the directive, with immediate effect. While the memo does not specify penalties for non-compliance, the tone underscores the seriousness of the order and the high-level administrative control now being exercised from the top of the judiciary.

Implications and reactions awaited

As this directive takes root, legal practitioners and judicial observers will be watching closely to assess its impact on the speed and transparency of court processes. While some may welcome the change as a measure of reform and efficiency, others may question whether such centralization could lead to bottlenecks or perceived bias.

For now, one thing is clear: Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie is asserting his leadership with decisive administrative action, reshaping the internal mechanics of Ghana’s judicial system—at least for the foreseeable future.