The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) has announced that it has received confirmation of the approval of a new salary structure by the Presidency. The group acknowledged Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo for her crucial role in securing the approval, stating that her ingenuity and exceptional leadership, with the support of other stakeholders, led to a successful conclusion of the engagement.
JUSAG had earlier declared an indefinite strike in May, which was subsequently suspended to allow for negotiations between the parties involved. In a statement dated July 17, 2023, JUSAG expressed satisfaction with the progress made during the negotiations, highlighting the approval of their newly reviewed salaries by the government.
The communique, signed by JUSAG President Samuel Afotey Otu, emphasized the challenges faced throughout the process. However, the association expressed gratitude for Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo’s commitment and the support of other stakeholders in reaching an understanding on June 15, 2023. The agreement stipulated that the implementation of the reviewed salaries would take effect in July 2023.
JUSAG further referenced a letter from Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo dated July 13, 2023, confirming that the President of Ghana had approved the new salary structure. The Ministry of Finance had also indicated that the implementation of the new structure would occur in July 2023, according to the statement.
“We are reassured by the letter of Her Ladyship Honourable Chief Justice… which confirms that His Excellency the President of Ghana has approved the new salary structure, and implementation will be done in the month of July 2023,” stated Mr. Afotey Otu.
In addition to the salary approval, JUSAG expressed satisfaction with Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo’s commitment to seeing the passage of a Judicial Service Regulation (Constitutional Instrument) into law. This initiative, in accordance with Article 158(2), 159, and the case of JUSAG vs The Attorney General &2 Ors (2016), aims to bring an end to the biennial strikes associated with salary reviews.
JUSAG concluded by expressing hope that the comprehensive work on the Constitutional Instrument would resolve any remaining issues, paving the way for a stable and productive work environment for judicial service staff in the future.
The full statement from JUSAG can be found [here](insert link to the full statement).
As the approval of the new salary structure brings relief and optimism to judicial service staff, it is anticipated that this development will foster improved morale and efficiency within Ghana’s judicial system.
