The Chief Justice, Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has introduced Small Claims and Debt Recovery Courts in the Greater Accra and Ashanti regions, to address the burgeoning number of debt disputes.
At the launch held at the La District Court in Accra, Chief Justice Torkornoo explained that the surge in small claims, made the establishment of these specialized courts a necessity. These new courts aim to streamline debt recovery processes and prevent delays that could diminish the value of liquidated claims.
She elaborated that these Small Claims and Debt Recovery Courts will initially function on a pilot basis, with eight courts in Greater Accra and four in Ashanti. These courts will be operating from 2 pm to 8 pm on weekdays and 8:30 am to 4 pm on Saturdays.
In Greater Accra specifically, the Ashaiman District Court, Teshie District Court, Kasoa District Court, and La District Court will handle Saturday cases.
Meanwhile, the Weija District Court, Sowutuom District Court, Adenta District Court ‘2’, Adenta, and Gbese District Courts will manage weekday afternoon cases. Courts in the Ashanti Region will follow a similar schedule.
Chief Justice Torkornoo also pointed out that Saturday courts have long served national agencies like SSNIT for recovery purposes and encouraged microfinance institutions needing additional support to contact the Office of the Judicial Secretary.
This will help ensure that the extended hours meet the country’s needs and enhance court efficiency.
Richard Quaye, Board Chairman of Bills Micro-Credit, revealed that the company lends approximately two billion cedis to the public each year, with a significant portion frequently becoming difficult to recover.
He expressed his appreciation for the Chief Justice and the Judicial Service’s new initiative, noting that it will greatly accelerate debt recovery and strengthen investor confidence by improving service efficiency.
