Kumasi: Parties engaging in Court-Connected Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in Ghana have the autonomy to select their mediators, as emphasized by Justice Mrs. Angelina Mensah-Homiah, a Court of Appeal Judge overseeing ADR. Justice Mensah-Homiah explained that while the selection of mediators might be influenced by the backgrounds of available professionals, the ultimate choice rests with the parties involved. The concept of mediation is designed to create a setting where parties can resolve their disputes collaboratively.
According to Ghana News Agency, Justice Mensah-Homiah highlighted the mediator's role as a facilitator of dialogue, assisting parties in reaching amicable resolutions. Her comments were made during a meeting with the Ghana National Association of Garages in Kumasi. This interaction is part of a series of engagements with the business community in the Ashanti Region, leading up to the annual ADR Week celebration from March 17 to 21. The event will be inaugurated by the Chief Justice at the Court of Appeal's forecourt in Kumasi on March 17, focusing on the theme: 'Building the Pillars of Justice through Commercial Justice ADR.'
In addition to the garages association, the pre-celebration activities also included engagements with the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) and the Mt. Olivet Methodist Church at Abrepo Junction. Justice Mensah-Homiah pointed out the advantages of ADR, such as saving time and money, which are crucial for both businesses and individuals. ADR provides privacy, particularly in sensitive matters like marital issues, as these cases are not held in open court. She noted that apart from the initial filing fee, ADR incurs no additional court costs, enhancing its affordability.
Mrs. Christiana Puorideme, Chief ADR Officer at the ADR Directorate of the Judicial Service, stated that ADR was integrated into Ghana's justice system in 2005. The initiative aims to alleviate the burden on courts by facilitating the swift resolution of cases suitable for ADR. She encouraged participants to consider ADR for dispute resolution to free up time for their business activities.