The Government Statistician, Dr Alhassan Iddrisu, has stressed that a justice system without reliable data cannot effectively assess or manage its own performance.
Speaking after the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ghana Statistical Service and the Judicial Service of Ghana, he described the agreement as a major step toward strengthening data-driven governance in the country.
According to him, integrating the judiciary into Ghana’s national data coordination framework will significantly improve justice delivery. “With better administrative data from the courts, we can track case backlogs with precision, improve how judicial resources are deployed, strengthen transparency, and build deeper public trust in the rule of law,” he said.
Dr Iddrisu noted that the agreement is part of a broader national effort to harmonise data systems across government institutions. He referenced similar agreements signed on March 12, 2026, with 25 Ministries, Departments and Agencies, explaining that these partnerships are creating a unified system where data flows seamlessly to support decision-making.
He added that bringing the justice system into this coordinated framework goes beyond measuring services. It enables the country to assess fairness, access, efficiency, and accountability in justice delivery.
“And here’s the reality: a justice system that cannot clearly see itself through reliable data cannot manage its performance effectively. This partnership changes that,” he said.
The MoU was signed with Justice Gabriel Pwamang, representing the Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, alongside key officials of the Judicial Service, including Musah Ahmed.
On behalf of the Chief Justice, Justice Pwamang reaffirmed the Judicial Service’s commitment to providing quality administrative data and embedding data assurance processes into its routine operations.
Dr Iddrisu expressed appreciation to the leadership of the Judicial Service and staff of the Ghana Statistical Service for their collaboration and commitment to the initiative.
He emphasised that the agreement must translate into action, not just documentation. “This is not about paperwork. It is about building a system where data is used, not stored,” he said.
He outlined three key priorities: recording data accurately, managing it as a strategic asset, and using it to drive decisions.
“If we do this right, we will not only improve statistics, but also improve governance, improve justice, and improve outcomes for our citizens,” he added. “The task now is to move from signing to implementation.”
