Chief Justice Launches Sweeping Jury Reformsat Opening of 2025 Criminal Assizes

Chief Justice Announces Major Jury System Overhaul

Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has announced significant changes to Ghana's jury system. She made this announcement during the opening of the 2025 Criminal Assizes. The reforms aim to improve trial speed and integrity in Ghana’s criminal justice system.

In her speech in Accra, she discussed a year-long reform journey. This journey began with her Leading Justice Initiatives on April 8, 2024. These initiatives focused on identifying weaknesses in the Judiciary and promoting efficiency.

One major reform is expanding the national juror pool. Previously, jurors were mainly selected from clerical and public sector staff. Now, they will come from a wider range of professionals, including those in the private sector. This change aims to eliminate “professional jurors” who have served multiple times over many years.

“This change is long overdue,” said Chief Justice Torkornoo. She emphasized that jurors should reflect society and promote swift justice.

The Chief Justice also outlined new administrative directives for trials. No juror will be listed in more than one court to avoid conflicts. Trials will run continuously until they are concluded.

Prosecution disclosures must be filed before empaneling juries to prevent delays. Judges are required to prepare Case Completion Plans before trials begin. In some cases, like rape, judges may use assessors instead of juries.

Justice Torkornoo mentioned that Superior Court Justices could hear criminal cases nationwide. This move aims to reduce case backlogs and ensure speedy justice.

She stressed strict compliance with laws regarding juror conduct and attendance. Jurors who miss proceedings without justification may face sanctions, including loss of allowances.

The Chief Justice also called on other stakeholders to fulfill their responsibilities. Lawyers must adhere to the Legal Profession (Professional Conduct and Etiquette) Rules from 2020.

Police and prison officers need to ensure timely production of accused persons and evidence. Judges should use their powers to compel witness attendance and prevent delays.

“These reforms are not mere tweaks,” she stated firmly. “They call for urgency, accountability, and fairness from all actors in the justice system.”

In closing, Justice Torkornoo thanked the planning team and partners who made these reforms possible.