Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Kweku Tawiah Ackah-Boafo, has said despite live broadcasts of court proceedings could influence how some lawyers conduct themselves in court, Ghana could still try it out.
He said there are concerns that some lawyers may focus on public attention instead of legal arguments.
“In our jurisdiction, people play to the gallery,” he said Speaking on JoyNews’ The Law.
He said he has observed situations where lawyers appeared more interested in impressing clients than addressing the court.
Justice Ackah-Boafo also pointed to the Supreme Court’s workload as another practical challenge.
“The workload has also prevented the opportunity for counsel to be on their feet.”
He contrasted Ghana’s court schedule with that of Canada’s Supreme Court.
“If the Supreme Court is assessing 18 dockets a day, what time do you have to do the real work in chambers?”
According to him, while some foreign courts hear only a few cases each day and allow lawyers extended time for oral arguments, Ghana’s Supreme Court handles significantly more matters, making it difficult to devote similar time to each case.
