Ghana Bar Association Hosts 2025 Mid-Year Conference and Passes Some Key Resolutions.

April 30, 2025

The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) convened its 2025 Mid-Year Conference in Accra under the theme “Expanding the Role of the Legal Professional in National Development: Positioning the GBA as the Fulcrum.”

The event brought together legal practitioners from across the country for robust discussions on how the profession can address matters of national interest.

In her opening address, GBA President Mrs. Efua Ghartey reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to upholding justice, the rule of law, and accountability. She called on members of the Bar to become more involved in national development beyond courtroom litigation.

A panel discussion moderated by GBA Vice President Mrs. Victoria Barth featured leading legal minds including Dr. David Ofosu-Dorte, Mr. Edmund Foley, and Hon. Diana Asonaba Dapaah.  These speakers addressed the need for greater engagement in pro bono work, technological adaptation in legal practice, and the need for lawyers, especially the young lawyers, to explore diverse and emerging areas within the profession.

Following the panel discussion, the GBA introduced key committees including the Welfare Committee and the Court Monitoring Committee. The Welfare Committee pledged to expand its focus to provide active support to practising, ill, or incapacitated lawyers.

At the conclusion of the conference, the Ghana Bar Association adopted a number of resolutions reflecting its stance on pressing legal and national issues:

1. On the directive on assignment of courts and fixing of dates as issued by the Acting Chief Justice on the 23^rd April, 2025

The GBA requested the immediate withdrawal of the Acting Chief Justice’s directive on the assignment of newly filed cases and urged greater use of technology to enhance efficiency in court operations.

• On the Suspension of the Chief Justice

1. The Association declared the suspension unconstitutional, citing the absence of supporting regulations under Article 296 of the 1992 Constitution, and called for its reversal.
2. The GBA called for clear and comprehensive legal instruments to govern procedures relating to the removal of judges under Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution.
3. It urged the President to release the full decision establishing a prima facie case against the Chief Justice to ensure transparency.
4. The Association denounced prejudicial political commentary aimed at undermining the judiciary’s integrity and vowed to protect its independence.
5. On other matters affecting the Nation:

1. The GBA strongly condemned illegal mining in the Country and called for immediate and sustained action from all sectors of government and the judiciary to eradicate the menace.
2. In relation to the Conflict at Bawku, the Association commended ongoing mediation efforts by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and pledged its support to traditional authorities working toward a peaceful resolution.
3. In relation to the outcome of Parliamentary Elections in Ablekuma North, the GBA expressed concern over the unresolved election results and called on the Electoral Commission and law enforcement agencies to expedite the process to uphold the democratic rights of the constituents.

Altogether, these resolutions reinforce the GBA’s central role as both a watchdog and stakeholder in national development and the administration of justice.