Government Considers Allowing Judiciary Full Use of IFG to Strengthen Courts
The government is exploring the possibility of allowing the Judiciary to retain and fully utilise 100 per cent of its Internally Generated Funds (IGF) to help address urgent operational challenges and improve the efficiency of the justice system.
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson revealed this following a courtesy visit by the Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe Bonnie, to the Ministry of Finance. The discussion centered on reinforcing support for the Judiciary and finding ways to enhance court operations. “Among the measures under consideration, we are examining options that would enable the Judiciary to use its entire internally generated revenue to meet pressing operational needs,” Dr. Forson said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting the justice sector.
The Chief Justice was joined by Supreme Court Judge Justice Gabriel Pwamang, Prof. Raymond Atuguba, Acting Director of the Ghana School of Law, and the Judicial Secretary. Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Dr. Dominic Ayine also attended the meeting.
Dr. Forson noted that the engagement is part of a broader effort to strengthen collaboration among the Ministry of Finance, the Judiciary, and the Ministry of Justice, aiming to address long-standing challenges in the administration of justice.
Justice Baffoe Bonnie, in turn, expressed gratitude for the Ministry of Finance’s continuous support, while highlighting key issues affecting the Judiciary. He pointed to congestion in courts as a significant obstacle to timely justice delivery and outlined several initiatives currently underway to improve the situation.
The Chief Justice also drew attention to the working conditions within the Judiciary, stressing the importance of sustained investment to enhance infrastructure and operational capacity. Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Dr. Forson said a well-resourced and efficient judicial system is vital for good governance and the rule of law.
Both institutions agreed that improved funding, collaboration, and strategic investments are essential to strengthen the Judiciary and ensure timely and efficient justice delivery across the country. “We will continue to work closely with the Judiciary and the Ministry of Justice to ensure that the justice system operates effectively and meets the expectations of the public,” he stated.
