Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has pushed back against Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame’s recent call for judges to expedite galamsey cases, asserting that prosecutors, not judges, are primarily responsible for delays in these proceedings.
The clarification comes in response to Dame’s urging at the Annual Conference of the Association of Magistrates and Judges of Ghana for judges to deliver rulings within a month on galamsey cases.
Dame argued that swift judgments would help mitigate the devastating environmental impact of illegal mining.
While Dame’s concerns about the destruction of water bodies and forest reserves due to galamsey are valid, Chief Justice Torkornoo insists that the judiciary is not the primary cause of delays in these cases.
According to her, engagements with the Attorney General have revealed that prosecutors often contribute to delays by not presenting cases promptly.
This revelation underscores the need for prosecutors to improve their efficiency and ensure that cases are handled expeditiously. The Chief Justice’s response emphasizes the importance of addressing systemic issues within the justice system rather than solely relying on judges to expedite cases.
The galamsey menace has become a pressing national issue, with many Ghanaians demanding swift action against perpetrators. While the Attorney General’s call for expedited judgments is well-intentioned, it is crucial to address the underlying causes of delays.
Chief Justice Torkornoo’s clarification highlights the judiciary’s commitment to delivering justice efficiently. However, she emphasizes the need for collaboration between the judiciary, prosecutors, and other stakeholders to effectively combat galamsey and protect the environment.
