GBA calls on Ag. Chief Justice to withdraw court assignment directive

The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has asked acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie to withdraw a recent directive. This directive requires all new cases and applications in superior courts to go to his office for assignment.

On April 26, the GBA expressed concerns about this directive. They warned it could delay justice and hinder technology integration in the judicial process.

The GBA stated, “The directive by His Lordship is uncertain. Given the importance of technology and urgent justice delivery, we request its withdrawal.”

They suggested enhancing existing technological systems instead of centralizing control. This would improve transparency, efficiency, and access to justice.

This request follows Justice Baffoe-Bonnie's statement from April 23, 2025. He directed registrars to submit all new filings to his office for scheduling.

This order applies to registrars of High Courts, Courts of Appeal, and the Supreme Court. Registrars must now forward every new case to him for assignment or judge paneling.

The directive also centralizes hearing date scheduling under the Chief Justice’s supervision. It overrides previous guidelines on court assignments and remains effective until further notice.