President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his unwavering respect for the independence of the Judiciary and the Judicial Service, stating that it is a constitutional guarantee and not a favour from the Executive.
The President’s position was conveyed by his Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, on his behalf at the opening of the 2nd Quadrennial Delegates’ Conference of the Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) held at the University for Development Studies, Tamale.
The five-day conference which started from August 24 will end on August 29, 2026, is on the theme, “Championing Staff Welfare and Technology: Anchors of Quality Justice.”
“President Mahama remains steadfast in his respect for the independence of the Judiciary. Our Constitution gives the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary distinct responsibilities, but binds all three to one national purpose: upholding the rule of law and serving the people,” Mr. Debrah said.
“That independence is not a favour granted by the Executive; it is a constitutional guarantee and an indispensable safeguard of our democracy,” he stressed.
He assured that Government will continue to work constructively with the Judiciary, respecting its autonomy while supporting better administration of justice and wider access for every Ghanaian.
You are the face of Justice
The Chief of Staff Mr. Debrah paid glowing tribute to the over 5,000 staff of the Judicial Service, describing them as indispensable to justice delivery.
“When citizens enter our courts, they naturally focus on the judges. Yet behind every sitting is a team of registrars, clerks, bailiffs, interpreters, stenographers, ICT professionals, accountants, administrators, librarians, drivers, security officers, cleaners and many others. Every file processed, sitting organised, judgment recorded and citizen assisted bears the mark of your professionalism,” he noted.
“Your service may often be quiet, but it is indispensable. For many citizens, you are the first human face of the justice system and the last they meet before leaving court. The respect, patience and efficiency with which you serve directly shape public confidence.”
He also commended JUSAG for its growth since 1973 into one of Ghana’s most respected labour organisations, noting that its tradition of dialogue and responsible leadership shows that difficult labour issues can be resolved through goodwill and commitment to the national interest.
C.I. 141 A Major Milestone
Mr. Debrah described the passage of the Judicial Service (Terms and Conditions of Service) Regulations, 2025, C.I. 141, as a major welfare milestone that has brought certainty to the conditions of service of staff.
“For years, the absence of a comprehensive framework created uncertainty and sometimes disrupted the administration of justice. Through collaboration among Government, the Judicial Council, Parliament, the Attorney-General and other stakeholders, that longstanding matter has been resolved. C.I. 141 now provides greater certainty, fairness and stability, while supporting the welfare and professional development of staff,” he stated.
He added that the importance of the instrument goes beyond improved benefits, as it defines responsibilities, reinforces professional standards and provides a firmer basis for industrial harmony.
Housing, Welfare and Technology
Touching on broader welfare, the Chief of Staff said welfare extends beyond salaries to include housing and family security.
He cited the Judicial City Estates Project and JUSCOFund as visionary initiatives opening a path to affordable housing, which he said complement President Mahama’s Green City Housing Programme and the announced GH¢3 billion Revolving Housing Fund for public sector workers.
“A decent home is more than shelter; it brings stability, dignity and peace of mind,” he said.
He also praised JUSAG’s Heritage Cashback Plan for its life insurance, disability and critical-illness protection, saying it aligns with national initiatives such as the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, MahamaCares, and Free Primary Healthcare.
On technology, Mr. Debrah said government will continue to support the Judiciary’s digital transformation to bring justice closer to the people.
“Whether a Ghanaian lives in Accra, Bolgatanga, Ho, Wa, Takoradi or Tamale, that person deserves a system that is timely and accessible,” he said.
“Government will continue to support the Judiciary’s digital transformation through expanded electronic filing, integrated case management, secure digital payments and the responsible use of virtual hearings. Digital reform must go beyond replacing paper with computers. Its purpose is to reduce delay, improve transparency and renew public confidence.”
Human element still key
Concluding, the Chief of Staff Julius Debrah cautioned that modernization must not lose sight of the human element at the heart of justice.
“Technology can improve efficiency, but it cannot replace integrity. Infrastructure can expand access, but it cannot substitute for professionalism. Regulations can set standards, but it is the discipline, compassion and patriotism of those who serve that ultimately give life to justice,” he stated.
“Our task is to leave behind courts that are modern, accessible and trusted; a workforce treated with dignity; and a justice system in which no Ghanaian feels that fairness is beyond reach.”
“Every improvement in our courts strengthens Ghana’s democracy. Every investment in Judicial Service staff strengthens justice. And every responsible innovation brings fairness closer to the citizen… when justice stands strong, Ghana stands strong,” President Mahama’s message concluded.
Story: Murtala Inusah
