The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (A.M.A.) has officially inaugurated a new District Court at its old premises to strengthen enforcement of its by-laws and ensure swift justice delivery on minor offences such as sanitation breaches and traffic infractions. 

The newly commissioned court comprises a typing pool, registrar’s office, magistrate’s chambers, docket room, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) office, and washrooms, all designed to meet modern judicial standards.

Speaking at the commissioning on Tuesday, the Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, described the establishment of the court as a personal dream fulfilled since assuming office.

“This court has been on my heart from the first day I stepped into office. I am a happy man to see this court open today,” he remarked, adding that the facility would play a crucial role in the city’s Reset Agenda to restore order and cleanliness.

The Mayor explained that with the court now operational, enforcement of the A.M.A.’s by-laws, especially on sanitation and its “red line” policy, which designates specific no-trading zones within markets and public spaces, among others, would be intensified.

 “Anyone who violates the red line policy, for instance, will be brought before court for protection... People must now know that whatever you do, there is a court to hold you accountable,” he stated.

He said the inauguration forms part of the A.M.A.’s broader “Reset Accra” agenda aimed at restoring urban discipline, improving sanitation enforcement, and strengthening governance through effective institutions.

He appealed to the judiciary to consider extending sittings beyond weekdays, considering the government's 24-hour agenda. 

“I wished it would run as a 24-hour court, but our Chief Justice said they can only operate up to Saturday. Even so, this shows that the reset has indeed begun at the A.M.A.,” he said.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the Acting Chief Justice, Supreme Court Judge, His Lordship Justice Imoro Tanko underscored the significance of the new court in improving justice accessibility for ordinary citizens.

He emphasised that the decentralisation of justice through courts like the newly commissioned A.M.A. District Court would reduce congestion in the mainstream courts, expedite adjudication of minor offences, and reinforce the rule of law.

“Our national development is anchored on respect for law and due process. This court will not only speed up justice delivery but also ensure equal access to justice for all, regardless of social status," he said. 

"Imagine being a hawker or driver apprehended for a minor offence, and you are dragged to a circuit or high court whose dockets are full. Often your case is adjourned, you lose a day’s income, and yet the offence may simply attract a fine,” he added.

He lauded the A.M.A. for its initiative and urged users of the facility to treat it with respect to ensure its sustainability.

During the court’s first sitting, Juliet Mettle, who was charged with operating a food business without a valid food handler’s certificate for two of her staff and cooking under unsanitary conditions, pleaded guilty and was fined 60 penalty units.

Daniel Otoo, on the other hand, who was arraigned for dumping and burning refuse at an unauthorised site and discharging effluent into a public drain, pleaded not guilty. He was granted bail and is scheduled to reappear before the court on July 9, 2025.