'Let justice flow' – Dr Boafo urges judiciary to address biases ahead of 2024 elections

The Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church, Most Rev. Dr. Paul Kwabena Boafo, has called on the judiciary to actively combat systemic biases as the country approaches the December elections. According to him, a fair administration of justice can significantly reduce the potential for violence and retaliation as the country heads to the crucial polls.

“Trust in institutions has diminished, which could lead to potential violence or retaliation. If party ‘A’ believes they will receive a fair hearing and a just outcome in court, they are more likely to trust the system and engage peacefully rather than resort to conflict. Justice is essential for a peaceful election; it guarantees fairness, transparency, and accountability in the electoral process. It is vital that all eligible voters have equal access to participate in elections, regardless of their social, economic, or ethnic backgrounds. So, let justice flow.”

Speaking at a special church service at the opening of the 2024-2025 legal year, the former Chairman of the Christian Council of Ghana urged legal professionals to serve as stewards of truth, equity, and fairness.

“You are a crucial stakeholder in ensuring a peaceful election this December 2024. This year, it is imperative that we embrace our roles in fostering a just electoral system. We have established legal frameworks in place to address grievances effectively.”

“This year, let justice flow, and may we all witness peace in our nation. When we build trust and affirm that we are credible, impartial individuals committed to consistent rulings on fairness and equity, we can support everyone—whether from the city or the village, regardless of background. Only through this commitment can we achieve prosperity and peaceful coexistence in our nation. Let justice flow,” he added.

Meanwhile, he highlighted the need for the government to take drastic measures to tackle the galamsey menace.

“There are significant issues at play that have disrupted the balance for a major stakeholder in our resistance: the environment. When I speak of environmental or ecological justice, I mean not only the welfare of human beings but also the well-being of everything that sustains us, so that we can live in harmony with the world God created. Everything should be in a state of perfection. We are witnessing pressing issues of environmental justice—or rather, environmental injustice.”

“When we call for environmental justice, we advocate for the care and fairness owed to the environment that sustains us. Today, we face the grave issue of galamsey, which poses a significant threat. The level of injustice to our ecosystems, forests, lands, and water bodies in Ghana is alarming. This concern affects us all. The destruction is human-induced, often supported by powerful individuals and officials who exploit vulnerable youth in the process. Just last week, I learned of cases in court that have lingered for days, months, and even years. It is our responsibility to ensure the security of our nation,” he added.

“We must secure our nation by protecting and defending those in need, as well as safeguarding our environment. The injustices we inflict on the environment have serious repercussions for us all. This includes rising cancer rates, children born with deformities, and the contamination of our water sources, particularly in rural areas. Once more, I urge, let justice flow. Justice has the power to promote peace by addressing inequalities and resolving conflicts fairly and equitably. When people feel that their rights are protected and disputes are handled justly, they are more likely to coexist peacefully.”

n attendance were the Chief Justice, Justices of the Superior Courts, magistrates, directors of the service, the President of the Ghana Bar Association, the Deputy Attorney General, and numerous lawyers. Her Ladyship Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo highlighted the importance of embracing digitalization to reduce the workload of the judiciary in the upcoming legal year.

The special church service marking the opening of the 67th Legal Year was centered on the theme “Building the Pillars of Justice Delivery through Leadership, Innovation, and Technology.”