Judicial Service dispels claims of politically motivated judge transfers

This statement follows media reports suggesting that Justice Ofori's transfer was aimed at hindering the Special Prosecutor’s trial of Alex Kwabena Safo Kantanka.

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The Judicial Service of Ghana (JSG) has clarified that judicial transfers, including the recent reassignment of Justice Priscilla Dikro Ofori, are routine administrative measures and are not intended to interfere with ongoing cases.

This statement follows media reports suggesting that Justice Ofori's transfer was aimed at hindering the Special Prosecutor’s trial of Alex Kwabena Safo Kantanka. Addressing these claims, the JSG explained on Tuesday, December 3, that such reassignments are part of regular procedures conducted annually or as required by specific circumstances.

The JSG emphasized that judges who are transferred are obligated to finalize judgments for completed cases and continue trials nearing conclusion. As part of the established process, judges must submit a Case Completion Plan to the Chief Justice. This plan ensures the issuance of warrants enabling them to deliver pending rulings and judgments. Justice Ofori, reassigned from Kumasi to Accra as part of the 2024 legal year transfers, has complied with these requirements. She submitted her Case Completion Plan on November 29, 2024, and has been authorized to complete cases that are close to resolution.

The statement also clarified that Justice Ofori's transfer is one among over 20 similar reassignments affecting judges at various court levels, stressing that the move is not linked to any alleged attempts to disrupt judicial proceedings.

The JSG urged the public to appreciate the procedural nature of judicial transfers and called on media organizations to prioritize accuracy and fairness in their reporting. It encouraged journalists to verify information before publication to avoid misinforming the public.