The meeting, convened on January 19, 2026 to deliberate on and validate the Judiciary’s fourth strategic plan covering the period 2026 to 2030, brought together the Chairman of the Strategic Planning Committee, His Lordship Gabriel Scott Pwamang (JSC), alongside Judges and Magistrates, directors, heads of departments, and unit leaders within the Judicial Service.
Opening Remarks by Chaiman
His Lordship Gabriel Scott Pwamang
The Chairman of the Planning Committee, Justice Pwamang, JSC, in his opening remarks, thanked the Chief Justice for his support in the development of the current Strategic Plan. Justice Pwamang further explained that, in preparation for the 2026–2029 Strategic Plan, the Committee had already set out its structure and progressed to the activity development stage, where all Departments and Units are expected to submit their workplans. He emphasized that this was the reason for convening the retreat, encouraging all attendees to actively participate in the discussions. Finally, he welcomed everyone present and expressed hope for a successful meeting
A Historic Moment
In his remarks, the Chief Justice described the meeting as “a poignant step in the drive for continuous improvement for the Judiciary and The Judicial Service,” noting its special significance as the Judiciary celebrates 100 years of existence this year.
Reflecting on the progress achieved through three completed cycles of strategic reforms spanning 15 years, Justice Baffoe Bonnie stated “Our resolve as an institution to be guided by a Strategic Plan has enabled us to make significant impact, even if not perfect scores in all areas. This fourth cycle gives us yet another opportunity to make a difference in justice administration in Ghana.”
Vision for the Judiciary
His Lordship Justice Baffoe Bonnie in his address outlined three key pillars of his vision for the Judiciary:
- Increasing Efficiency and Boosting Public Confidence: Drawing on decades of judicial experience and acknowledging case backlogs as a major challenge in the justice system, Justice Baffoe Bonnie announced the introduction of an Afternoon Court Shift System as a strategic measure. He revealed that “an initial 30 courts have been earmarked to commence in the first quarter of 2026.” This initiative, he said, will be supported by improved courtroom environments, enhanced ICT infrastructure, and adequate human resources.
- Creating Specialized Courts: He underscored the need to safeguard Ghana’s environment and national resources for future generations. To this end, dedicated courts will be established to address environmental governance issues, particularly illegal mining (galamsey), as well as cases arising from surcharges in the Auditor General’s reports.
- Implementing Change Management Strategies: Acknowledging the challenges of organizational change, the Chief Justice emphasized the importance of ensuring that judges and staff remain receptive, conscientious, and committed to continuous engagement with court users.
“These pillars will build on existing foundations and place us on an even higher pedestal,” Justice Baffoe Bonnie remarked, urging full support from stakeholders.
Call for Collaboration
Chief Justice in a picture with some superior Court Justices and directors of the Service
The Chief Justice stressed the importance of aligning the Judiciary’s strategic plan with the government’s National Medium-Term Plan, cautioning that resources must be prioritized carefully.
He expressed gratitude to Justice Gabriel Pwamang for his leadership in drafting both the expired 2020–2024 plan and the new 2026–2030 document, and commended members of the Strategic Plan Committee for their dedication.