Parliament Passes Tribunals Bill To Reform Justice
Parliament has approved the Tribunals Bill, 2026, clearing the path for the re-establishment of tribunals under a recalibrated legal architecture aimed at enhancing judicial efficiency and expanding access to remedies.
The Bill successfully completed its third reading and secured legislative assent during proceedings on Thursday, July 16. With parliamentary approval secured, the legislation will now be transmitted to President John Dramani Mahama for presidential assent before it comes into force.
According to Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Dr Dominic Ayine, the measure is intended to address systemic delays and decongest the superior courts. Moving the motion for the third reading, he sought and obtained the Speaker’s permission to waive the procedural requirement for a one-day interval between the consideration stage and final passage. He argued that the revised framework introduces streamlined procedures and specialized adjudication to expedite the resolution of disputes.
The reintroduction of tribunals marks a return to a model previously utilized to handle specific categories of civil and administrative matters. Proponents contend that the new structure incorporates safeguards for due process while prioritizing expedition, thereby reducing cost and complexity for litigants who previously faced protracted court timelines.
Legal observers note that the Bill responds to long-standing concerns over case backlog and accessibility within the justice delivery system. By creating dedicated fora with defined jurisdiction, the legislation seeks to institutionalize alternative pathways for dispute resolution without compromising judicial oversight.
The next phase rests with the Presidency. Upon assent, the Ministry of Justice is expected to issue operational guidelines and appoint adjudicators, signaling the operationalization of a mechanism designed to reinforce public confidence in the administration of justice.
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Author: Korkor Anumu
