In her first public address as President of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), Mrs. Efua Ghartey urged legal professionals to strengthen collaboration with key stakeholders to develop policies addressing systemic challenges in Ghana’s justice delivery system.
She made this call at the opening of a three-day Public Service Lawyers’ Conference in Accra, where public service lawyers from across the country gathered to discuss improving the legal system.
Mrs. Ghartey, recently sworn in as GBA President, highlighted the conference’s theme of fostering collaboration among legal practitioners to promote quality service delivery.
She emphasized the unique role public service lawyers play in bridging the gap between the justice system and the public, asserting that they serve as an “essential bridge of hope” for many Ghanaians who rely on the legal system for protection and justice.
“Your work not only upholds the rule of law but directly impacts the lives of citizens and the integrity of our institutions,” she stated. “In fulfilling this role, consider yourselves a vital connection without which the legal system cannot fully benefit the populace.”
Acknowledging the challenges that public service lawyers face, including limited resources and the complex nature of their work, Mrs. Ghartey commended them for their commitment.
She urged the lawyers to see public service as “an opportunity to make a meaningful difference,” rather than merely an obligation, and to continually enhance their skills through ongoing legal education.
As part of her vision, Mrs. Ghartey emphasized the importance of ethical integrity, transparency, and accountability. She encouraged members of the Bar to uphold high ethical standards and to remain vigilant against conflicts of interest and corruption.
“Your credibility in the public sphere hinges on your unwavering commitment to justice,” she stressed.
Mrs. Ghartey also acknowledged the support of the Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Dame, for his efforts to improve public legal services.
She praised recent advancements in the sector, including the completion of a new twelve-story office for the Attorney General’s department, and the recruitment of over 130 new attorneys to enhance capacity across regional offices.
In her concluding remarks, Mrs. Ghartey urged participants to leave the conference with a renewed commitment to public service and a determination to influence policy change.
“Together, you can strengthen your commitment to effective lawyering and uphold the principles of justice to create a more equitable society,” she affirmed.
The conference, which runs for three days, is expected to provide a platform for robust discussions on best practices and collaborative approaches to improve public legal services.
Source : www.kumasimail.com
