By Francis Kobena Tandoh
Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has criticized the use of public tribunals as a solution to Ghana’s judicial challenges, arguing that they are not the antidote to the congestion in the country’s courts.
His remarks come amid national debate over the recently passed Tribunals Bill, 2026, by Parliament which seeks to reintroduce public tribunals into Ghana’s justice delivery system.
Speaking during a national address on Sunday, the former Vice President contended that the primary causes of delays in the judiciary include inadequate numbers of judges and judicial staff, limited courtroom infrastructure, procedural inefficiencies and case management challenges, as well as insufficient investment in the justice sector.
According to him, addressing these structural issues would be a more effective way to reduce the backlog of cases than establishing public tribunals. He cautioned that reviving public tribunals could raise concerns about judicial independence and the protection of due process if appropriate safeguards are not maintained.
Supporters of the Tribunals Bill, however, argue that the specialized tribunals are intended to expedite the hearing of specific categories of cases, improve access to justice, and complement—rather than replace—the regular courts.
Bawumia’s comments add to the ongoing political and legal debate over the future of Ghana’s justice system, with supporters and critics differing on whether public tribunals will enhance efficiency or undermine the constitutional role of the courts. Enditem
Source: Ghana Eye Report
