Lawyer and Weija-Gbawe lawmaker Jerry Shaib has called on the Government of Ghana to “demonstrate unwavering commitment to strengthening our justice institutions through increased budgetary allocations, comprehensive justice sector reforms, and the implementation of policies that ensure equal access to justice for all”.

In his statment on the floor of Parliament today, he emphasised, “Government must lead by example in demonstrating accountability and respect for law in all its actions and decisions.”

On the occasion of International Day of Justice, MP Shaib urged colleague parliamentarians “to recognize our sacred duty as custodians of the law and guardians of democratic principles. We must commit to passing legislation that upholds human rights, strengthens the rule of law, and ensures that our legal framework remains responsive to the evolving needs of our society”.

To “our esteemed members of the judiciary,” he appealed for the continuous “upholding [of] the highest standards of judicial independence, integrity, and impartiality.

“The judiciary remains the final arbiter of justice in our democracy, and citizens must have unwavering confidence in your ability to deliver fair and timely justice.”

See Jerry Shaib’s entire statement below:

STATEMENT DELIVERED ON THE FLOOR OF PARLIAMENT ON THE COMMEMORATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF JUSTICE BY HON. JERRY AHMED SHAIB (ESQ.), MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR WEIJA-GBAWE AND SECOND DEPUTY MINORITY WHIP

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to make a statement in recognition of the International Day of Justice, which is being observed globally on July 17th under the theme "Accountability and Respect for Law." This year marks the 27th anniversary of the adoption of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, a historic milestone that established the first permanent international criminal court dedicated to ending impunity for the most serious crimes of concern to the international community.

As we observe this International Day of Justice, we reflect on Ghana's unwavering commitment to the rule of law, both domestically and internationally, and our role in advancing justice for all humanity. The significance of this day extends beyond mere commemoration; it serves as a powerful reminder that justice transcends national boundaries and that the fight against impunity requires collective action from the global community. The theme "Accountability and Respect for Law" resonates deeply with Ghana's democratic aspirations and our ongoing journey toward a more just society.

The establishment of the International Criminal Court represents a paradigm shift in international law, moving from a system where sovereignty could shield perpetrators of mass atrocities to one where individual accountability takes precedence. This transformation embodies the very essence of our theme that no one, regardless of position or power, should be above the law.

Accountability, as demonstrated by the International Criminal Court, means that those who commit the gravest crimes against humanity must face justice. Respect for law, the complementary aspect of our theme, ensures that legal frameworks are not merely theoretical constructs but living instruments that govern behavior and protect the vulnerable.

Ghana's legal system represents a complex tapestry of legal traditions, reflecting our colonial history and indigenous practices. As noted by the Judicial Service of Ghana, Ghana's legal system was built on a foundation of received Anglo-Saxon common law, statutory law, and other documents, with an enduring body of largely unwritten customary usages and practices that remain a contextual feature of the modern legal system of Ghana.

This diverse legal heritage underscores the importance of respecting all forms of law within our jurisdiction. True respect for law means acknowledging that justice can emerge from various legal traditions while ensuring that these traditions align with fundamental human rights principles.

Since the restoration of constitutional democracy in 1993, Ghana has made significant strides in strengthening the rule of law. According to the Africa Governance, Monitoring and Advocacy Project (AfriMAP), the country has witnessed many positive developments since the restoration of civilian rule in 1993, including improvements in the administration of law and justice. These improvements reflect our growing understanding that accountability is not merely about punishment but about creating systems that prevent abuse of power and ensure transparent governance.

As parliamentarians, we bear a special responsibility in advancing the cause of justice, particularly in embodying the principles of accountability and respect for law. The Parliament of Ghana serves as the primary institution for law-making, oversight, and representation, making it central to any efforts to strengthen the rule of law. Our role extends beyond simply passing laws; we must ensure that legislation is crafted with justice and human rights principles at its core.

Parliament's accountability function manifests through rigorous oversight of the executive branch, ensuring that government policies and actions comply with legal standards. We must demonstrate respect for law by subjecting ourselves to the same legal standards we expect of others and by creating laws that are fair, just, and responsive to the needs of our constituents.

The advancement of justice is not solely the responsibility of government institutions. Civil society organizations, legal practitioners, academic institutions, and ordinary citizens all have vital roles to play in promoting justice and the rule of law. Civil society organizations serve as watchdogs, advocates, and service providers, helping to ensure that justice institutions remain accountable to the people they serve.

Legal practitioners have a professional obligation to uphold the highest standards of legal practice and to ensure that justice is accessible to all. They serve as guardians of respect for law by maintaining professional ethics and advocating for their clients within the bounds of legal propriety.

As we commemorate this International Day of Justice, we must recommit ourselves to the pursuit of a more just society grounded in accountability and respect for law. This requires sustained effort across multiple fronts, including strengthening institutions, promoting legal education and awareness, embracing technology and innovation, and fostering inclusive justice.

We must continue to invest in building strong, independent, and effective justice institutions that embody accountability in their operations and command respect through their fairness and effectiveness. This includes providing adequate resources, improving infrastructure, and ensuring that our institutions have the capacity to deliver timely and fair justice.

The International Day of Justice reminds us that the pursuit of justice is both a global endeavour and a local responsibility. For Ghana, this day represents an opportunity to reflect on our progress, acknowledge our challenges, and renew our commitment to building a more just society. As we move forward, we must remember that justice is not a destination but a journey. It requires the sustained commitment of all stakeholders; government, civil society, and citizens.

In this spirit of collective responsibility and renewed commitment to justice, I make these clarion calls:

Firstly, I call upon the Government of Ghana to demonstrate unwavering commitment to strengthening our justice institutions through increased budgetary allocations, comprehensive justice sector reforms, and the implementation of policies that ensure equal access to justice for all. Government must lead by example in demonstrating accountability and respect for law in all its actions and decisions.

Furthermore, to my esteemed colleagues in Parliament, I call upon us to recognize our sacred duty as custodians of the law and guardians of democratic principles. We must commit to passing legislation that upholds human rights, strengthens the rule of law, and ensures that our legal framework remains responsive to the evolving needs of our society.

Lastly, to our esteemed members of the judiciary, I call upon you to continue upholding the highest standards of judicial independence, integrity, and impartiality. The judiciary remains the final arbiter of justice in our democracy, and citizens must have unwavering confidence in your ability to deliver fair and timely justice.

Mr. Speaker, let us use this day to recommit ourselves to the cause of justice, knowing that our efforts today will shape the Ghana we leave for future generations. May the principles of accountability and respect for law guide our actions as we work together to build a more just and equitable society for all Ghanaians.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.