Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has called for stronger collaboration between management and staff of the Judicial Service, saying a productive relationship between the two is critical to effective justice delivery and maintaining public confidence in the judiciary. He made the call at the Catholic University College at Fiapre in the Bono Region, where he delivered the keynote address at the opening of the 2nd Quadrennial Delegates Congress of the Senior Staff Association of the Judicial Service of Ghana (SSAJUG).
Better Staff Management Key to Effective Justice Delivery
The Chief Justice emphasized that a motivated, fairly treated, and professionally committed workforce is crucial for the Judicial Service to effectively discharge its constitutional mandate. "The relationship between management and staff ought never to be one of permanent confrontation," he said. Justice Baffoe-Bonnie urged delegates to use the Congress to reflect on the responsibilities of both management and staff towards strengthening the Judicial Service and improving its service to Ghanaians.
Every Interaction Matters
According to the Chief Justice, the conduct of judicial officers and staff in their everyday interactions with court users could either strengthen or erode confidence in the justice system. "Every interaction matters. Every delay matters. Every act of courtesy matters. Every lapse of professionalism matters. And every act of quiet dedication, however small and unseen, strengthens or weakens the public's confidence in the justice system," he added.
Strengthening Collaboration between Management and Staff
Trade unions must contribute to institutional development, according to Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment Dr Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo, who also addressed the Congress. He said modern trade unionism should also contribute to institutional development, productivity, ethical conduct, innovation, accountability, and improved service delivery. President of SSAJUG Marilyn Suttah commended the management of the Judicial Service for ongoing reforms aimed at improving the conditions of service of staff, but challenged senior staff to demonstrate leadership and exemplary conduct in the discharge of their duties.
A Platform for Collaboration
The Congress provides a platform for delegates to deliberate on issues affecting members of the association and explore ways of strengthening collaboration between management and staff to improve justice administration. The theme of the Congress, "Trade Unionism in the Service: Partnering Management for Quality Justice Administration," highlights the need for a more collaborative approach between management and staff. As the Judicial Service continues to face challenges in delivering effective justice, the call for stronger collaboration between management and staff is timely and necessary.
Source: Joy Online
