Blackout halts court hearings

Justice seekers at the ultra-modern court complex in Accra have been left stranded as hearings have stalled due to a blackout.

Lawyers and judges alike are frustrated over the situation since sittings cannot take place in the dark, coupled with the heat in the courtrooms and chambers.

As a result of the blackout, court clerks are unable to record proceedings or retrieve records from the computerized system.

According to Starr News’ court correspondent Wilberforce Asare, the standby plant that is meant to provide alternate electricity is also without fuel which has compounded the issue.

“Frantic efforts underway to refuel the plant,” Asare reported.

The court complex made up of 42 courtrooms, houses 10 land courts, 10 commercial courts, 6 criminal courts, 6 general jurisdiction court, 3 divorce and matrimonial courts, 2 financial and economic courts, 2 human rights courts, 2 labour courts and a Probate and Administration court.

The court complex has banking facilities, cafeteria, 300- seater auditorium, library, a business centre and a media centre, Press briefing room, Executive office for the Attorney General and Police Prosecutor and a data centre among others.