Nominated Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, has emphasized the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring that accused persons are duly represented in court, stressing that access to justice remains a cornerstone of the country’s legal system.
He made this call when the leadership of the Ghana Law Society paid a courtesy visit to him to extend their goodwill and discuss issues of mutual concern.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie urged the association to intensify efforts toward securing recognition from the General Legal Council (GLC) and acquiring the requisite licenses that would enable their members to represent clients effectively in court.
“Sometimes that is why I don’t speak, because I recall very well that when the transition team came, I was in office,” he said. “I took them through all the processes, and I asked them to go to the Ghana Police Service and make enquiries. So I want to believe that the truth is out there.”
He noted that the judiciary, as mandated by the Constitution, is dedicated to protecting the rights of citizens, but underscored that lawyers play a critical role in ensuring fair trial processes. Recalling his experience as a trial judge, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie said he often assigned lawyers from the bar to represent unrepresented litigants in order to protect the integrity of justice delivery.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie further stressed that what the judiciary expects from lawyers and legal associations is compliance with licensing requirements, rather than the specific professional group or association they belong to.
“If you have come on board either as individuals or as a law society, what I would implore you to do is to pursue your license from the GLC. Once that is in place, the bench will definitely give you audience,” he advised.
The Ghana Law Society, in its remarks, assured the CJ nominee of its commitment to supporting the judiciary’s quest to ensure justice for all, while reiterating plans to engage the GLC for formal recognition.
The visit formed part of the Law Society’s broader efforts to deepen collaboration with the judiciary and highlight the importance of expanding avenues for lawyers to practice freely, provided they meet the standards set by the country’s legal regulatory framework.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie expressed appreciation to the delegation for their kind words and pledged that, if approved as Chief Justice, he would continue to uphold the principles of justice and fairness.
“I hope and pray that at the end of the day, what we all desire – justice for the good people of this country – will be achieved while we are there,” he concluded.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
