Renowned legal scholar and governance advocate, Professor Kwaku Asare, has been vocal about various issues affecting Ghana’s judiciary and society. Here are some key points from his recent statements:
Judicial Reforms
– Supreme Court Expansion: Professor Asare criticizes the recent nomination of seven new justices to the Supreme Court, arguing that the judiciary needs reforms, not new justices. He emphasizes that the focus should be on improving judicial infrastructure, training, case automation, and professional support systems.
– Judicial Accountability: Asare believes that holding the Chief Justice accountable for her actions is not an attack on the judiciary but rather a necessary step to ensure judicial integrity.
Fast Justice System
– Case Backlog: Professor Asare advocates for a fast justice system to address the growing case backlog in Ghana’s judiciary. He proposes measures such as sanctions for unjustified delays and disciplinary actions against those responsible for obstructing the judicial process.
– Time Standards: Asare recommends establishing judicial time standards to enhance efficiency and streamline court proceedings. This includes setting specific timelines for different categories of legal proceedings to ensure cases are resolved within reasonable timeframes.
Social Issues
– Galamsey Menace: Professor Asare expresses concern about the destruction of Ghana’s land and water bodies due to illegal mining (galamsey). He calls for collective action to address this national crisis, emphasizing that it’s a moral issue that transcends political boundaries.
– Shielding Wrongdoers: Asare condemns the culture of “behind-the-scenes begging” that undermines efforts to hold wrongdoers accountable in Ghana. He advocates for legislation to criminalize interference in ongoing prosecutions, whether through direct lobbying or indirect pressure.