President Akufo-Addo recently inaugurated the Governing Board of the Alternative Resolution Centre under the Alternate Dispute Resolution Act 2010 (Act 789) at the Jubilee House. The ceremony was attended by esteemed dignitaries such as the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, and the Attorney-General of the Republic, Godfred Yeboah Dame, among others.
The creation of the Alternative Resolution Centre, mandated under section 114 of the ADR Act, is a significant milestone fourteen years after the legislation was passed. The newly inaugurated Governing Board consists of representatives from various sectors as outlined in section 117(1)(b) of Act 798, including the Ghana Chamber of Commerce, Ghana Bar Association, Ghana Institute of Surveyors, Judiciary, Institute of Chartered Accountants, and Organized Labor.
Additionally, nominees appointed by the President include Justice Victor Jones Mawulom Dotse as Chairperson and Mrs. Efua Ghartey as a nominee. President Akufo-Addo praised the efforts of the Attorney-General and Chief Justice in establishing the Centre, highlighting its importance in enhancing alternative dispute resolution mechanisms across Ghana.
The Board, guided by section 115 of the ADR Act, has various objectives, including facilitating ADR practices, maintaining a register of arbitrators and mediators, providing guidelines on fees, conducting research and education, establishing regional and district offices, and registering customary arbitrators.
Following the inauguration of Board members, President Akufo-Addo announced plans to collaborate with the Board to appoint an Executive Secretary as outlined in the ADR Act. The initiative aims to streamline the dispute resolution process and promote peaceful resolutions in the country.
