Approach criminal cases with integrity and fairness – C/R Supervising High Court Judge  

The Central Region Supervising High Court Judge has urged judges and jurors to handle criminal cases with care. She emphasized the importance of integrity and fairness in these cases.

Juliana Amono-Niezer stated that such cases affect lives, liberty, and society's peace. She believes that collective efforts will lead to efficient and fair trials.

Mrs. Amono-Niezer made these remarks at the opening of this year’s criminal assizes. The ceremony took place at the Cape Coast Court Complex.

Criminal assizes are special High Court sessions held annually. They address serious offenses like murder, rape, armed robbery, and treason.

Following the ceremony, juries were empaneled for three murder cases. One case involved Georgina Asor Botchwey, a prospective student nurse murdered in 2022.

She highlighted that assizes are crucial for fair justice delivery. They ensure accused individuals are tried fairly before a judge and jury.

The success of these assizes depends on collaboration among all stakeholders. It is not solely the judiciary's responsibility.

“The opening of the criminal assizes reaffirms our commitment to the rule of law,” she said. It also emphasizes safeguarding individual rights and community security.

Judge Amono-Niezer praised all stakeholders for their dedication over the years. This includes state attorneys, police officers, jurors, and judges.

She acknowledged the media's role in promoting transparency in justice reporting. Journalists should continue responsible reporting to build public trust in institutions.

Mr. Vincent Aboagye Nyinaku from the Attorney-General’s Office stressed criminal justice's importance. He warned that without it, society would face chaos and anarchy.

He urged all stakeholders to support and strengthen the system. Jurors must be fair; an accused person is only guilty if proven so by evidence.

“Avoid any act of corruption in your duty,” he advised jurors. Mr. Nyinaku supported speedy trials but called for better funding for his office.

Mr. Daniel Arthur from the Ghana Bar Association pledged their members' commitment to justice. They aim to ensure only those who commit crimes face punishment without bias.