The Association of Magistrates and Judges Ghana (AMJG) has pleaded with the office of the Chief Justice to among other things, sponsor three of its hardworking members annually to pursue courses outside the country.
Speaking at the 39th annual general meeting of the AMJG, president of the association, Justice Senyo Dzamefe explained that the move will boost the output of judges and magistrates.
Mr. Dzamefe also demanded that all lower bench judges be issued with service passports to enable them travel without visas.
“The association is pleading with her ladyship the chief justice and management, as an incentive package, to sponsor three hardworking trial judges; one each from the district, circuit and high court judges annually for courses outside.”
“There must be a committee with set-out criteria for selecting the best and most hardworking and deserving magistrates and judges.”
If the suggestion is accepted, the association said it will help by paying the for the air ticket while “management costs the course and pays the fees.”
Stop giving judicial service staff monetary gifts – Chief Justice to judges, magistrates
The Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo at the event warned judges and magistrates against giving monetary gifts to staff of the Judicial Service as a way of showing appreciation for their assistance in the line of duty.
According to her, the gesture fosters corruption and as such, must not be encouraged.
She therefore cautioned all judges and magistrates to restrict their show of appreciation to a verbal one.
“Out of the sense of obligation, we are obliged to pay ‘thank you’ money to judicial service staff in the performance of their lawful duties. This practice has persisted for a while but I believe it is time for us to put a stop to it as it contributes to the culture of corruption.”