I will not compromise on judiciary dress codes – Justice Anin

Chief Justice nominee, Justice Anin Yeboah has said, he is in favour of the wigs and formal thick black robes as dress codes for judges.

According to him, he will in no way compromise the outfit when he becomes Chief Justice.

His submission comes despite complaints from colleague judges that the apparel brings heat and discomfort mainly in poorly-ventilated courts.

Senior lecturer at the Faculty of Law, University of Ghana, Professor Raymond Atuguba also added his voice saying, the dress code poses avoidable and preventable health conditions to legal practitioners.

Newly elected Supreme Court judge, Justice Gertrude Torknonoo, also suggested attires made of African print to be introduced as uniform for judges adding that the apparel could be uncomfortable for judges who are required to sit for a significant duration in court sessions wearing heavy robes in hot weather.

As a means to also promote local products, Justice Torkornoo told the committee during her vetting procedure “I wish we could even wear African print”.

“I do agree that in high temperatures when the to air-condition is not blowing, it can be uncomfortable,” she added.

But responding to issues surrounding the judicial apparel, Justice Anin said that the practice of wigs, bibs, and gowns, have been a tradition of the judicial service thus he won’t change the “tradition.”

“If I had my way, I won’t change the tradition of the court.” He said before the Appointments Committee of Parliament.

Holding the Judiciary in high esteem he added, “that’s our uniform and I am all out for the tradition at the bar. I am not going to change it. If I have my own way, I will never.”