Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has affirmed that the judiciary in Ghana has consistently played a crucial role in managing the electoral process, particularly in handling disputes related to voter registration, parliamentary, and presidential elections.
Speaking at the Annual Ghana Bar Association Conference in Kumasi on September 9, Justice Torkornoo noted that the judiciary has put in place a permanent elections management committee, which is chaired by a Supreme Court judge.
“The Supreme Court judge works actively with all relevant domestic and international organizations to respond to issues raised during and after the electoral process,” she stated.
The Chief Justice explained that the committee is not only responsible for overseeing election-related disputes, but also for training and supervising judges who are involved in such cases. This ensures that judges are well-prepared and informed throughout the electoral cycle, enhancing the judiciary’s effectiveness in maintaining electoral integrity.
Justice Torkornoo also announced the upcoming launch of a new, expanded compendium designed for stakeholders in the electoral process. “Since 2008, the judiciary has also produced a compendium of relevant statutes and case law as a guide for stakeholders. This year, it has been moved from a single volume to a three-volume compendium, allowing for a good sampling of the vast body of jurisprudence that has developed over the 30 years of the Fourth Republic,” she explained.
She added, “I believe we will be ready to launch it in a few weeks so that stakeholders can familiarize themselves or refresh their memories with the materials available.”
The Chief Justice’s comments underscore the judiciary’s ongoing commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process, with the necessary legal frameworks and resources in place for all stakeholders involved.
3fm