In light of the ongoing Bawku conflict, Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has given instructions for the reopening of four key courts in the Upper East Region, following a period of closure due to safety concerns.
The closure of the courts on October 29 came after reports from court officials, judges, and staff members expressed fears for their security, particularly as the conflict in Bawku intensified. With the escalating violence, a number of courts in the region ceased operations as a precautionary measure.
However, several areas in the Upper East Region, including Bolgatanga, Zuarungu, and Bongo, which were not directly affected by the conflict, expressed frustration over the court shutdown.
These regions argued that they were far removed from the conflict zone and, as such, should not be impacted by the closure. In response, local residents, legal professionals, and community leaders quickly mobilized and petitioned the Chief Justice to reconsider the decision.
Acknowledging these concerns, the Chief Justice, in a circular dated November 8, made the decision to lift the suspension and allow the courts in the following districts to resume their functions:
High Court, Bolgatanga
Circuit Court, Bolgatanga
District Court, Bolgatanga
District Court, Bongo
This reopening decision follows several discussions between legal stakeholders and judicial authorities, with the goal of ensuring that justice continues to be administered in the region despite the security challenges posed by the conflict.
In the circular, signed by Judicial Service Secretary Justice Cyra Pamela Koranteng JA, court registrars were instructed to resume operations with immediate effect.
Additionally, steps were outlined to ensure enhanced security measures at these courts, with the aim of preventing any potential disruptions.
The Chief Justice expressed her appreciation for the cooperation of all involved parties and reiterated the commitment of the judiciary to ensuring that the rule of law continues to be upheld in every part of Ghana, despite the security challenges faced in certain regions.
This decision to reopen the courts is seen as a step towards restoring normalcy in the region while addressing the concerns of the local legal community.
The Chief Justice further expressed hope that it would also provide much-needed access to justice for those seeking legal redress in the Upper East Region.
