Ghana Courts Launch Morning Sessions to Clear Backlogs

Ghana's courts are getting a major upgrade that could change how justice works for millions of people.

Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie just announced sweeping reforms to clear the country's clogged court system, including double court sessions and specialized courts to handle urgent cases. The changes aim to cut waiting times and make justice more accessible across the nation.

The judiciary will introduce both morning and afternoon court sessions, effectively doubling capacity without building new courtrooms. They're also expanding Alternative Dispute Resolution services, giving people faster ways to settle conflicts outside lengthy trials.

One standout change is the creation of galamsey courts dedicated solely to prosecuting illegal mining cases. Illegal mining has devastated Ghana's environment for years, and these focused courts mean cases won't languish in general court queues.

Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie shared these plans during a meeting with Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, where judiciary officials outlined their wins from the past year and goals for 2026. The judiciary is also revising the Rules of Court, with new streamlined rules set to launch by March 2026.

The reforms extend beyond courtrooms. Plans are underway to decentralize the Ghana Law School entrance exam, allowing accredited law faculties nationwide to administer a standardized test. This could train more lawyers in more places, eventually expanding legal services across the country.

The judiciary is also accelerating its E-Justice system to improve case management and let people access court services digitally. A new Supreme Court Complex is in the works too, addressing current security concerns and cramped office space.

The Ripple Effect

When courts work efficiently, entire communities benefit. Faster case resolution means business disputes get settled quickly, families can move forward after conflicts, and criminals face consequences sooner. Digital systems mean people in rural areas won't need to travel hours to check case status or file documents.

The specialized galamsey courts show how focused justice can tackle urgent national challenges. Environmental crimes have poisoned water sources and destroyed farmland for countless Ghanaians. Dedicated courts signal these cases matter and will move through the system swiftly.

Vice President Opoku-Agyemang praised the judiciary's leadership and expressed full support for the reform agenda. The government recognizes that accessible, efficient courts strengthen democracy and economic growth.

These aren't just administrative tweaks; they're fundamental changes that could restore public trust in Ghana's justice system and prove courts can adapt to serve people better.