Judicial reforms: Jury selection now open to all citizens – Chief Justice

The Chief Justice of Ghana, Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, has announced changes to jury selection. All eligible citizens can now participate in the process. This aims to improve the speed and quality of criminal justice.

The announcement was made on April 16, 2025, during the opening of the Criminal Assizes. Chief Justice Torkornoo stated that this expansion includes many individuals from the private sector. She hopes this will address delays in criminal case adjudication.

Torkornoo emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader reform agenda. The goal is to make the judiciary more efficient and results-oriented. She praised her team for their efforts in promoting these reforms through media and stakeholder engagements.

Judges are reminded to enforce penalties for jurors who do not attend court without valid reasons. Any absence by an empanelled juror will count as a day of no work. This affects their eligibility for allowances.

Chief Justice Torkornoo requested foremen to notify jurors about attendance ahead of court sittings. She called for collective support from all players in the justice sector to drive these reforms.

She expressed gratitude for contributions from colleagues, staff, and partners over the past year. Torkornoo noted significant milestones achieved with their help.

The expanded jury system aims to enhance transparency and public participation in Ghana’s criminal justice system. It also seeks timely adjudication of cases.

The core planning team for the Criminal Assizes includes several judges and directors from various departments within the judicial service.