Two Decades of Advancing Access to Justice: NCCE Assin Foso Joins Legal Aid Commission's Anniversary Outreach

The Legal Aid Commission has marked its 20th anniversary with a public sensitisation exercise in Assin Foso, bringing information on free legal assistance and constitutional rights directly to residents. The outreach, undertaken in collaboration with the Assin Foso Municipal Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), sought to raise awareness of the Commission's services and encourage vulnerable individuals to seek legal assistance when their rights are violated.

The exercise took place at the Assin Foso Main Lorry Station and Foso Town Market, where traders, commercial drivers, passengers and market women were educated on the importance of accessing justice through appropriate legal channels. The engagement formed part of activities commemorating the Legal Aid Commission's two decades of providing legal assistance to persons who cannot afford legal representation.

Supporting the anniversary activities, NCCE officers Adabiyatu Balali Iddrisu and Michael Sagoe engaged members of the public through the community information centre and direct interactions. Their presentations focused on Ghana's 1992 Constitution, fundamental human rights and the responsibility of citizens to pursue grievances through lawful means.

The officers encouraged residents to familiarise themselves with their constitutional rights and seek assistance from appropriate institutions when confronted with disputes or violations. They cautioned against resorting to violence or taking the law into their own hands, stressing that peaceful dispute resolution contributes to social harmony and strengthens respect for the rule of law.

As part of the sensitisation, educational flyers containing information about the Legal Aid Commission's mandate and services were distributed to market women and other members of the public. The materials were intended to improve awareness of available legal support and help residents identify where to seek assistance when necessary.

Addressing residents during the outreach, Mr. Kelvin Aidoo, an officer of the Legal Aid Commission, explained that the institution provides free legal assistance to eligible persons who lack the financial means to engage a lawyer. He highlighted cases involving human rights violations and landlord-tenant disputes as examples of matters for which individuals could seek assistance.

Mr. Aidoo encouraged residents not to allow financial difficulties to prevent them from pursuing legitimate legal claims, emphasising the importance of knowing the institutions available to support them.

The collaboration provided an opportunity for the NCCE to complement the Legal Aid Commission's anniversary activities by promoting constitutional awareness and responsible citizenship among members of the public.

Through the outreach, the Legal Aid Commission highlighted its continuing commitment to improving access to justice, while the NCCE reinforced the importance of public education in helping citizens understand and exercise their rights within the law.