President of the Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana, Samuel Afotey Otu, called on the government to urgently improve the remuneration and working conditions of judges, magistrates and other judicial staff during the opening ceremony of the 45th Annual Conference of the Association of Magistrates and Judges of Ghana in Accra.
Mr. Afotey Otu highlighted the widening salary gap between the lower bench and superior court judges, urging the Ministry of Justice and the Attorney‑General to consider raising lower‑bench salaries. He also suggested police escorts for lower‑bench judges, noting that judges and magistrates perform similar duties but often lack comparable protection.
Speaking on the conference theme, "Balance Beyond the Bench: Harmonising Duty, Justice and Life," the association president stressed that judicial officers need adequate pay to support families, education and housing, and that a dignified income is essential for a balanced life outside court.
He warned of emerging risks in the digital age, where judicial activities are easily broadcast on social media, exposing judges and their families to new dangers. He urged the government to develop policies that address these risks while improving remuneration.
Mr. Afotey Otu also drew attention to the fact that over 130 courts nationwide currently operate without magistrates, calling for expedited recruitment to ensure efficient justice delivery.
He reminded the public that judges are members of communities, attending churches, shopping in markets and driving on roads, and urged society to treat them with the respect and kindness they deserve.
Concluding, the JUSAG president referenced the association’s lawful demands presented at its conference in Tamale on 25 August 2026 and a staff durbar in Tema on 14 September 2026, noting that the Judicial Council’s report has been submitted to the Presidency for approval under Article 149 of the 1992 Constitution.
The association pledged to work with the judiciary and government to create a working environment where judicial officers and staff can serve with dignity while living fulfilling lives.
