ICT, afternoon court sittings can help clear case backlog – Supreme Court nominee

Supreme Court nominee Anthony Forson Jnr has suggested utilizing information and communication technology (ICT) and afternoon court sessions as tools to alleviate the judiciary's case backlog. Speaking before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27, Mr Forson emphasized how technology and adaptable working conditions could notably enhance the courts' efficiency.

His assertions were backed by his past at the Ghana Bar Association, where he played a key role in digitizing all operations there. He expressed full confidence that, with the right resources and dedication, ICT could expedite case resolution. Mr Forson emphasized that technology should be at the forefront of the Chief Justice's efforts to address delays in the judicial process.

However, he acknowledged that some reforms might meet resistance, especially from lawyers who need to adapt to new working conditions. He pointed to afternoon court sessions as an illustrative example of such a change. Though he acknowledged that longer court hours could relieve the court's workload, Mr Forson maintained that ICT presented the most promising solution to the backlog.

He reiterated that ICT was the most effective solution, stating that it was a feasible option. His suggestions were framed against a backdrop of increasing concerns over case delays and the court system's growing workload, with rising calls for reforms to enhance efficiency and access to justice.