Close salary gap between lower bench and superior court judges—JUSAG

Samuel Afotey Otu, President of the Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG), has urged the government to enhance remuneration and working conditions for judges, magistrates, and staff across the judicial system. During the opening of the Association of Magistrates and Judges of Ghana's 45th Annual Conference in Accra, Otu highlighted the disparity in salaries between lower bench and superior court judges, advocating for an increase in the lower bench's pay to achieve a more balanced remuneration structure.

Speaking at the conference themed "Balance Beyond the Bench: Harmonising Duty, Justice, and Life," Otu emphasized the importance of judges and magistrates finding a healthy equilibrium between their professional duties and personal lives. He noted that being a competent judge or magistrate involves more than merely performing court duties; it also entails taking care of oneself, family, relationships, and well-being while upholding justice.

Otu pointed out that while judicial work demands commitment, discipline, and impartiality, it should not consume every facet of one's life. He stressed that judges need adequate rest, family support, and emotional well-being to sustain themselves in this demanding profession. Otu also emphasized that a fulfilling life outside the courtroom necessitates adequate remuneration that allows judicial officers to live with dignity and support their families.

Concerning digital age risks, Otu warned about the implications of social media exposure for judges, magistrates, and judicial staff, stating that this heightened visibility poses new challenges not faced in previous eras. He appealed to the Minister for Justice and Attorney-General to consider unique policies addressing these concerns, specifically calling for a reduction in the salary gap between lower bench and superior court judges.

Otu also requested for increased police protection for lower bench judges, stating that despite varying levels of responsibility, they all require similar levels of protection. Over 130 courts currently lack magistrates, and Otu urged the government to expedite recruitment to ensure efficient judicial administration. Despite criticism, Otu assured that judges will continue to perform their duties with dedication if they have the assurance that their earnings can provide a decent and dignified life.

He reminded the public of judges' roles in communities, urging for respect and kindness towards these individuals. Otu reminded the government of the demands made at the JUSAG conference in Tamale and the staff durbar in Tema, stating that Article 149 of the 1992 Constitution mandates the Judicial Council to submit its report for the President's approval.

He expressed hope that the government would act promptly to address the concerns of judicial service staff, noting that an "empty sack cannot stand upright." Otu pledged JUSAG's commitment to working with the judiciary and government to create a work environment where judicial officers and staff can serve with dignity while leading fulfilling lives.