We Need To Re-evaluate The Juror System Says Deputy Attorney-General

Deputy Attorney-General Diana Asonaba Dapaah has advocated for a reassessment of the jury system to improve the administration of justice.

In an interview on JoyNews’ AM Show, Dapaah mentioned that in Ghana, certain jurors can serve for up to 13 years or even longer.

She disclosed that there is a bill in parliament that comprehensively addresses the challenges encountered in criminal trials involving juries.

Among other provisions, the bill aims to shorten the duration of jury trials and also tackles the matter of how to proceed when a juror is unable to fulfill their duty.

“I believe that we have to be true to ourselves, this juror system, perhaps we need to take a second look at it, whether the whole system or partially. I believe that some delays (in cases) come from the trial by jury system.”

“So with the need to look at it holistically and solicit ideas on how we can make it effective, I believe that it would be a good chance for expediting trial within the criminal justice system,” she said.

The Deputy Attorney-General underscored that educating jurors would ensure their actions do not impede the judicial process. She further stated that any actions by jurors that disrupt the justice system would be dealt with accordingly.

Her remarks follow the Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo’s, press conference on April 8, where she outlined her initiatives to enhance the judiciary and prioritize ethical standards within her administration.