The Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, Sammi Awuku, has expressed his disapproval of the passage of the Tribunals Bill, 2026, labeling the revival of regional tribunals as a “tragedy” that jeopardizes the integrity of Ghana’s judiciary and democracy.
Mr. Awuku contended that rather than reinstating regional tribunals, the government ought to concentrate on fortifying the current courts, such as the High Court, Circuit Court, and District Court, to enhance the delivery of justice.
The Akuapem North MP in an interview made this comment after Parliament approved the Bill following its third reading.
“It’s a tragedy. The High Court is already managing many of these cases. According to the report from the Constitutional Review Commission, it was recommended that regional tribunals be disbanded because the High Court has been effectively handling the caseload of these tribunals,” he stated.
Mr. Awuku asserted that the funds allocated for the revival of the tribunals would be more effectively utilized to bolster the existing court system.
He argued that broadening the jurisdiction of Circuit Courts and enhancing the capabilities of High Courts would offer a more viable solution to the issues facing the justice delivery system.
“Currently, every action taken by the NDC raises concerns about the possibility of receiving a fair trial if one seeks redress in court. I am apprehensive about the integrity of our judiciary and the strength of our democracy,” he noted.
The lawmaker also referred to Ghana’s political history, asserting that regional tribunals are still linked to a time that many Ghanaians recall for alleged injustices and the infringement of fair trial rights.
He questioned the government’s choice to revive the tribunals, emphasizing that successive governments have been hesitant to fully implement them due to their historical implications.
“I am perplexed by the government’s sudden obsession with reviving the regional tribunals. This aspect remains a troubling chapter in our nation’s history. We are steering ourselves toward a scenario where individuals may start to feel unheard, which I believe is detrimental to our democracy,” he added.
Parliament has enacted the Tribunals Bill, 2026, following its successful third reading.
This legislation aims to reestablish regional tribunals within a revised legal framework designed to enhance the administration of justice and facilitate access to legal remedies.
In the meantime, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has reassured Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) that Parliament will not hesitate to reconsider the provisions of the Tribunals Bill, 2026, should the situation warrant it.
