Women's representation in judiciary key to building public trust — Akufo-Addo

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has emphasized the importance of women's representation at all levels of Ghana's judiciary in strengthening public confidence in the justice system.

Speaking at the 18th Africa Regional Conference of the International Association of Women Judges in Accra on Monday, Akufo-Addo noted that having more women on the bench brings unique perspectives and life experiences that can enrich interpretation and application of the law.

"Women judges can represent the spirit of justice and the enduring promise of equality within our judiciary," the President said.

He added that since becoming President in 2017, he has appointed many qualified women to judicial positions, including two as Chief Justice, the recent one being Gertrude Torkonol.

The conference theme, "Combating Negative Cultural Practices in Contemporary Times: The Role of Women Judges," calls on the judiciary to leverage legal expertise in dismantling barriers to justice, Akufo-Addo said.

He acknowledged that overcoming negative cultural practices requires all-encompassing efforts beyond just courtrooms.

"Education, awareness and collaborative governance are critical. We must engage traditional leaders, educators and communities to recalibrate mindsets and attitudes," Akufo-Addo stated.

The President noted that issues like gender-based violence, child marriage and harmful traditional practices are deeply entrenched in culture.

“In dealing with these issues, your voices and rulings can resonate deeply, driving societal transformation," he told the female judges.

Akufo-Addo highlighted infrastructure investments made to strengthen the judiciary, including 79 new courthouses and 121 residential units for judges constructed since 2017.

He stressed these efforts aim to bolster public trust and access to justice across Ghana.