Why Justice Anin Yeboah won't change the wearing of wigs in court

The Chief Justice (CJ) nominee, Justice Anin Yeboah says he will never change the tradition of lawyers and judges wearing wigs and robes in courtrooms if his nomination is approved.

The tradition of wearing wigs and robes still exists in former British colonies, eight years after the UK Supreme Court ruled that lawyers appearing at the UK’s highest court will no longer have to wear the traditional wig and gown.

However, answering questions before the Appointments Committee of Parliament (ACP) Monday, Justice Anin Yeboah said he was a firm believer in maintaining the tradition of wearing wigs and robes at the bar.

"Mr Chairman, with due respect to the honourable member, please that's our uniform. I am all out for the tradition at the bar. I am not going to change it, If I have my own way, I will never," Justice Anin Yeboah said.

His position on the matter is similar to the former Chief Justice, Sophia Akuffo who in 2017 directed that judges wear wigs during court sittings.

A statement signed by Justice Akuffo's judicial secretary said the wearing of the wigs "would provide the needed protection and anonymity for judges and enhanced personal security".