Acting Chief Justice instructs registrars to forward all new cases and applications for court assignment and scheduling of hearing dates

In a move that signals increased oversight and centralization within the judiciary, the Acting Chief Justice has issued a directive requiring all newly filed cases and applications to be submitted to his office for assignment and scheduling.

The directive, communicated through a memorandum signed by Dr. Cyracus B. Bapuuoroh, Deputy Judicial Secretary, was addressed to registrars of the High Courts, Courts of Appeal, and the Supreme Court. It instructs that all fresh filings be brought to the attention of the Acting Chief Justice for the purpose of assigning courts and empanelling judges, especially in jurisdictions where multiple courts operate.

The memo emphasizes that this new instruction takes precedence over all previous guidelines and will remain in effect until further notice.

“The Acting Honourable Chief Justice has directed that all newly filed cases and applications must be brought to his attention… for the fixing of dates for hearing,” the memorandum stated.

This directive comes in the wake of the recent suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, following the establishment of a prima facie case based on petitions currently under review by a committee appointed by President John Dramani Mahama.

Legal analysts suggest the directive is intended to maintain order and uniformity in judicial proceedings during the transitional period. The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has also weighed in on recent developments, urging all parties involved to act in a manner that upholds the integrity and independence of the judiciary.

As the judiciary adjusts to this period of change, stakeholders are being called upon to respect constitutional procedures and support the justice system’s stability.