Jurors across the country have effective immediately, declared an indefinite strike due to the non-payment of their allowances.
This decision, the jurors say is rooted in the unresolved arrears from February 2023, along with allowances owed from July 2023 to May 2024.
In a statement released by the jurors, they emphasized the financial burden imposed on them due to the absence of these payments.
“This situation has made it practically impossible for us to continue to pre-finance our transportation to and from the court premises,” portions of the statement read.
The jurors also highlighted that despite their commitment to the justice system, the lack of financial support has left them with no choice but to halt their duties.
They noted that they were promised payment in May, but subsequent follow-ups revealed that there are currently no funds available. The backlog of ten months’ worth of allowances has significantly strained their personal finances, compelling them to take this drastic step.
“We regret any inconvenience our absence may have on the expeditious delivery of justice,” the jurors added, acknowledging the potential impact on court proceedings. Their absence is expected to cause delays and disruptions in the judicial process, affecting the timely delivery of justice.
Below is the statement from the jurors:
We wish to respectfully bring to your attention that effective Thursday, May 16, 2024, jurors will be absent from jury duties
The absence is due to the non-payment of our allowance for February 2023 and from July 2023 to May 2024, (10 month’s allowance in arrears).
This situation has made it practically impossible for us to continue to pre-finance our transportation to and from Court premises.
We were promised May and upon follow up we have been told there is no money.
“We regret any inconvenience our absence may have on the expeditious delivery of justice.
With the announcement of their strike, indictable court cases will be heavily affected since jurors will not be present for the hearings.
Cases such as the Joseph Boakye Danquah murder trial, Gregory Afoko trial, Kasoa teenage killers murder trial among others will be forced not to sit.
By Laud Adu-Asare
