I’ll protect integrity of Judiciary - Justice Sophia Akuffo - Justice Sophia Akuffo on Integrity of the Judiciary

Integrity of the Judiciary

Justice Akuffo said there were perceptions about corruption in the judiciary and that the difficulty in dealing with the allegation of corruption against judges was that the complainants disappeared along the way.

In her view, the new way of handling such cases was to get written complaints.

Justice Akuffo said she would continue with the processes in place and initiate new ones to protect and enhance the integrity of the Judiciary.

"Everything to do with integrity and shoring up the image I would do. I will initiate measures and make those in place to work effectively," she said.
Justice Akuffo said she was interested in effectiveness as one of the characteristics of quality justice, and indicated she would make procedures and processes more open.

Automation

The Chief Justice nominee said she would ensure the automation of all district courts across the country.

She said she would enhance the application of technology to reduce the duration of hearing and completion of cases and reduce cost to the parties.

For instance, Justice Akuffo said, some of the processes could be conducted online, such as using Skype, Twitter or other forms of communication channels.

Besides, she said, the Judiciary could make use of solar energy to ensure the reliability of its operations.

Political influence

Justice Akuffo affirmed her resolve to ensure judges would insulate themselves from any external influence, including political, in the administration of justice.

She said there were many interventions that she would employ, including enforcing the code of conduct of judges.

Justice Akuffo expressed worry about the over-politicisation of everything in the country and called for an end to that practice.

"Everything is politicised excessively. It is one of the things we need to work on," she said.

Magistrates and judges

Justice Sophia Akuffo pledged to do a review of the current promotion arrangement of magistrates and judges at the lower courts.

She said she would make sure that promotion would be based on performance so that no one would be overlooked.

The Chief Justice nominee said there was a continuous process to review archaic laws and procedures and indicated that there was room to reform those out of date.