Supreme Court nominee, Justice Gbiel Simon Suurubaareh, has clarified that individuals who are wrongfully convicted and later acquitted - even after serving part or all of their sentences - have a legitimate path to seek compensation through the Supreme Court.
Speaking during his vetting by Parliament on Monday, June 16, Justice Suurubaareh affirmed the discretionary power of the apex court in determining whether such cases qualify for compensation, depending on their unique circumstances. "The Supreme Court uses its discretion based on the facts of the case and the circumstances. "I believe that the Supreme Court Justice will take all the necessary factors into consideration in deciding whether it is an appropriate case to award compensation or not," he stated.
His remarks came in response to a question from the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who sought clarity on whether the justice system provides any redress to individuals acquitted after long periods of incarceration.
The conversation was especially relevant in the wake of a recent high-profile acquittal.