The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has expressed support for the Chief Justice’s decision to temporarily close seven courts in the Upper East Region, a measure taken in response to the escalation of clashes in the Bawku Municipality.
This decision, which underscores the judiciary’s commitment to safeguarding its members, comes as tensions in Bawku continue to heighten, affecting the stability and safety of judicial activities in the area.
The Chief Justice issued a formal circular to judges in the region, ordering the immediate closure of these courts as a precautionary measure to protect the lives of judges, court staff, and the public.
Saviour Kudze, Public Relations Officer of the GBA told Citi News that the Chief Justice’s decision was not made in isolation but rather involved consultations with security forces, who provided updates and insights into the evolving security threats in the region.
Kudze added, “Following the developments as announced by the Chieftaincy Minister, I believe they have advised her on the intelligence that they have picked up, which must have necessitated the closure of the courts.”
He further stated that by closing these courts, the judiciary aims to avoid incidents that may endanger staff or judicial officers, who could otherwise become unintended targets in a volatile situation.
Kudze hinted that if the security situation does not improve promptly, alternative measures may be considered to ensure justice continues to be served. He mentioned the potential for reassigning cases to nearby regions, such as Tamale, to prevent an undue backlog and to uphold the legal rights of individuals whose cases are affected by the closures.
“The Chief Justice is the head of the judiciary. So I believe she is always in constant touch with the security agencies. And following the developments as announced by the Chieftaincy Minister, I believe they have advised her on the intelligence that they have picked up, which must have necessitated the closure of the courts.
“For now, reading the circular that has been sent out, said indefinitely for now and so I believe that the situation will be monitored. It cannot take forever. If it becomes necessary, they may have to reassign those cases to maybe Tamale or some other places.”
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