Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has fired back at Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame’s recent call to expedite galamsey cases, pointing out that prosecutors, not judges, are responsible for the delays. This clarification comes after Dame urged the Chief Justice to instruct judges presiding over galamsey cases to deliver their rulings within a month.
On Wednesday, October 2, Attorney General Dame expressed concerns about the slow pace of prosecuting galamsey cases at the Annual Conference of the Association of Magistrates and Judges of Ghana. He argued that swift judgments would help mitigate the ongoing destruction of water bodies and forest reserves caused by unregulated mining.
Dame’s concerns are valid, considering the devastating impact of galamsey on Ghana’s environment. The unauthorized operations in protected areas have led to widespread deforestation and water pollution. However, Chief Justice Torkornoo insists that the judiciary is not the primary cause of the delays.
According to Chief Justice Torkornoo, engagements with the Attorney General have shown that prosecutors are often the ones causing delays in galamsey cases. This revelation sheds light on the need for prosecutors to step up their game and ensure that cases are presented promptly.
The Chief Justice’s response highlights the importance of understanding the root causes of delays in the justice system. Rather than simply instructing judges to expedite cases, it’s crucial to address the systemic issues that lead to delays.
Prosecutors play a critical role in preparing cases for trial, and any inefficiencies in their work can significantly impact the pace of justice. By acknowledging the prosecutors’ role in delays, Chief Justice Torkornoo is emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to address the issue.
The galamsey menace has become a national concern, with many Ghanaians calling for swift action against perpetrators. While the Attorney General’s call for expedited judgments is well-intentioned, it’s essential to address the underlying causes of delays.
Chief Justice Torkornoo’s clarification serves as a reminder that the judiciary is committed to delivering justice efficiently. However, the judiciary cannot work in isolation; it requires the cooperation of prosecutors and other stakeholders.
To effectively combat galamsey, Ghana needs a multi-faceted approach that involves not only swift judgments but also robust law enforcement, community engagement, and environmental restoration.
The exchange between the Attorney General and the Chief Justice highlights the need for a collaborative effort to address the complex issues surrounding galamsey. By working together, Ghana can ensure that justice is served, and the environment is protected.
