Attorney-General Urges Legal Council to Address Unfounded Criticism of Judiciary
Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has called on Ghana’s General Legal Council to take decisive action against lawyers who unjustly criticize the judiciary. Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of the new Ghana Bar Association (GBA) executives in Accra on November 4, Dame emphasized that disparaging remarks against the judiciary harm the integrity of the legal profession and threaten Ghana’s democratic stability.
Dame highlighted the risk that unmerited criticisms pose to public confidence in the judiciary, which he said is essential to upholding the country’s constitutional order. He urged the General Legal Council to respond firmly to instances where lawyers spread unfounded constitutional theories in public or demonstrate unprofessional behavior in court. According to Dame, such actions contribute to the erosion of respect for the judiciary and undermine the democratic framework.
In his speech, Dame explained that the judiciary’s authority is constitutionally protected and derives from the sovereignty vested in the Ghanaian people. “The Constitution places the judiciary as the final arbiter of the law,” he stated, emphasizing that even the President must respect the judiciary's role. Any institution, he noted, must operate within the bounds of Ghana’s Constitution and laws, which the judiciary has the authority to enforce.
Addressing the newly elected leaders of the GBA, Dame underscored the need for collaborative support to maintain the judiciary’s independence and its role in safeguarding democracy. He stressed that Ghana’s judiciary is a pillar of democratic governance, and protecting its integrity ensures balanced law enforcement. The Attorney-General further asserted that adherence to constitutional norms and procedures is “non-negotiable,” as they represent the foundation of Ghana’s legal framework.
The Attorney-General also extended his well wishes to the incoming GBA executives, expressing confidence in their ability to bring valuable experience and integrity to their roles. He encouraged them to foster unity within the legal profession and strengthen public trust. “The privilege of service is yours,” he stated, “and I have no doubt you will rise to the task.”
This call to action aligns with broader efforts to enhance the credibility of the legal system and ensure a transparent judiciary. As Ghana approaches the upcoming elections, Dame’s message underscores the importance of a unified legal community that supports the judiciary’s role in promoting democracy and upholding the rule of law.
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