COURTS NOT GOLD MINES - Judges Told

By William Yaw Owusu

Friday, 05 January 2007
A Supreme Court Judge Seth Twum has cautioned judges not to use the bench as a money-making avenue.

"There is the greatest possibility in the practice of this noble profession to be corrupted. I will urge you to always live above reproach in order that we all preserve the sanctity of the administration of justice towards the consolidation of our democracy," Justice Dr Twum said when he swore in four new career magistrates in Accra yesterday.

Career magistrates are non-lawyers who are trained to administer justice, especially in rural areas where there are no judges.

He said public expectations of the judiciary as far as the country’s democratic dispensation is concerned are high and it is up to members of the bench to take up the challenge and ensure that the administration of justice is accessible to all manner of people.

Stressing the need for judges to be in the forefront of the administration of justice, he said "judicial office is pleasant but do not let the power get into your heads.

"Apply the laws appropriately. Be fair and firm in the dispensation of justice. You are here to make justice delivery work".

Dr. Twum pointed out that judges at the lower courts are the ones handling the bulk of cases brought to the courts and urged them to be diligent in their work, to avoid having backlog of cases.

He said their position was a privileged one so they should observe the responsibilities attached to it and always call their minds to the requirements of being a judge.

Dr Twum also advised judges to be circumspect in their dealings with the public, saying however that in their quest to maintain a discreet social life, they should not be snobs.

Mr. Paul K. Alhassan, on behalf of the new magistrates, gave the assurance that they would work to ensure the promotion of justice in the country.

"We will ensure that the Judicial Service does not have cause to regret instituting the career magistrate concept," he promised.

The ceremony was attended by the Judicial Secretary, Mrs Regina Apotsi, and other senior officials of the Judicial Service.