The Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, has disclosed that government has begun processes to establish a dedicated remand centre in Bolgatanga, a move aimed at strengthening justice delivery and easing pressure on existing prison facilities in the region.
The proposed facility is expected to address longstanding challenges associated with the transportation of remand prisoners from Bolgatanga to Navrongo, as well as severe congestion at the Navrongo Prisons, a situation worsened by the ongoing security disturbances in Bawku.
Mr. Atanga made the disclosure at the maiden regional press soiree organised under the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. He noted that the absence of a prison facility in the Upper East Regional capital has posed significant logistical and administrative challenges for the Ghana Prisons Service and the justice system at large.
According to the Regional Minister, consultations have already been held with the Ghana Prisons Service and the Ministry of the Interior to advance the initiative. He explained that the establishment of a remand centre in Bolgatanga would reduce delays in court proceedings, improve the welfare of remand prisoners, and enhance access to justice across the region.
As part of preliminary efforts, Mr. Atanga revealed that the Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service paid a courtesy call on him on December 22, 2025, during which both officials inspected a proposed site for the facility. While the site could serve as an interim solution, he said discussions are ongoing with key stakeholders within the Bolgatanga Municipality to secure a more suitable location for a permanent remand centre.
The Regional Minister emphasized that the initiative aligns with the broader governance and justice reform agenda of President John Dramani Mahama, which places premium importance on human rights, institutional strengthening, and equitable access to justice nationwide.
Source: BlueWaves Radio/Maurice Duncan
