Supreme Court nominee Anthony Forson Jnr has proposed increased use of information and communication technology (ICT) and afternoon court sittings. These measures aim to help the judiciary clear its substantial backlog of cases. This direct approach seeks to enhance the efficiency of Ghana’s legal system.
Mr. Forson presented his ideas to Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27. He stated that technology and more flexible working arrangements could significantly improve court operations. His proposals come amid growing concerns over delays in case disposal and the increasing workload faced by Ghana’s courts. These issues directly impact the speed of justice for citizens and businesses.
This initiative aligns with broader national efforts to modernise public services and improve institutional effectiveness. Ghana has been investing in digital infrastructure across various sectors to boost productivity. The judiciary's adoption of advanced technology could streamline processes, reduce administrative burdens, and accelerate legal proceedings. This move would also complement the government's wider digitisation agenda, which seeks to enhance transparency and service delivery.
Mr. Forson cited his successful experience at the Ghana Bar Association as evidence of technology's potential. He helped digitise the association's operations, demonstrating practical application. “My record at the Ghana Bar Association speaks for itself, where I digitised all the operations of the Ghana Bar,” Mr. Forson told the committee. He added that he would “strongly support the Chief Justice” in similar efforts within the judiciary.
The nominee expressed strong confidence that the judiciary can deploy ICT effectively, provided it receives necessary funding and commitment. “If there are funds, I am 100% sure the know-how to help with the disposal of the backlog of cases using ICT. It is doable,” he affirmed. He stressed that technology should be central to the Chief Justice’s strategy for tackling judicial delays.
Mr. Forson acknowledged that some reforms might face resistance from stakeholders, particularly lawyers. These professionals may need to adjust to new working arrangements. He specifically mentioned afternoon court sittings as an example of a change that could meet opposition. “For example, I believe that there should be afternoon court sittings. There will be opposition because the lawyers will say that they need their rest, but we have to move forward,” he explained.
Despite potential challenges, Mr. Forson maintains that ICT offers the most robust solution to the case backlog. He believes additional sitting hours can help manage the workload, but technology provides a more transformative impact. The effective implementation of these proposals could significantly reduce the time individuals and companies spend waiting for legal resolutions. This would improve investor confidence and the overall business environment in Ghana.
The judiciary’s ability to clear its backlog has direct economic implications. Lengthy legal disputes can tie up capital, deter investment, and increase operational costs for businesses. A more efficient judicial system ensures quicker contract enforcement and dispute resolution, which are vital for economic growth. Therefore, Mr. Forson’s proposals could contribute to a more predictable and reliable legal framework, benefiting Ghana's economy.
Moving forward, the focus will be on securing the necessary resources and political will to implement these technological and procedural changes. The judiciary, in collaboration with the government, will need to develop a clear roadmap for digitisation. This includes training legal professionals and investing in secure, robust ICT infrastructure. The success of these reforms will be crucial for enhancing public trust in the justice system and supporting Ghana’s broader development goals.