Ghana Law Society calls on government for urgent resolution of JUSAG, SSAJUG strike

The Ghana Law Society (GLS) has called on the government, the Judicial Service and organised labour within the judiciary to urgently resolve the ongoing industrial action by the Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) and the Senior Staff Association of the Judicial Service of Ghana (SSAJUG).

The Society says the strike, which began on November 2, 2026, has severely disrupted the administration of justice across the country, leaving litigants, lawyers and other court users facing considerable difficulties.

In a statement signed by the Director of Communications of the Ghana Law Society, L. A. Apanga Esq. on November 9, 2026, the GLS described the situation as troubling, warning that a prolonged interruption of court operations could undermine access to justice and weaken public confidence in the judicial system.

It noted that the judiciary plays a fundamental role in protecting constitutional rights, resolving disputes and ensuring that citizens obtain justice without unnecessary delays.

The Society stressed that the administrative, technical and support personnel of the Judicial Service are essential to the effective functioning of the courts, adding that the strike has affected the state's ability to deliver justice.

It particularly expressed concern about the impact on accused persons in custody, families seeking custody and maintenance orders, individuals awaiting urgent court decisions and people pursuing remedies for violations of their fundamental human rights.

While acknowledging the right of workers to pursue legitimate labour concerns through lawful industrial action, the GLS said the wider consequences for the public must also be considered.

The Society therefore urged government, particularly the relevant ministries and state institutions, to engage immediately with the leadership of both associations and the Judicial Service to negotiate a sustainable settlement.

It also appealed to JUSAG and SSAJUG to remain open to dialogue and take advantage of every reasonable opportunity to resolve the impasse in the interest of the justice system and the Ghanaian public.

The GLS outlined the need for renewed negotiations, good-faith engagements, protection of the public interest and an agreed timeline for addressing the outstanding concerns and restoring normal operations.

It further emphasised that the welfare, working conditions and legitimate grievances of Judicial Service employees deserve attention, noting that the courts cannot function effectively without the contributions of administrative and support staff.

However, it cautioned that the constitutional guarantee of access to justice should not be subjected to prolonged disruption, as continued court closures could deny citizens timely legal remedies.

The Society also expressed its readiness to support any constructive engagement or initiative aimed at securing an amicable settlement.

It called on all parties to treat the dispute as a matter of urgent national importance and take the necessary steps to end the industrial action without further delay.

“Justice delayed is justice denied. The people of Ghana deserve a fully functioning justice delivery system,” the statement concluded.