The Ghana Bar Association (GBA), during its mid-year conference held in Accra on April 26, 2025, issued a five-point resolution addressing critical national issues, including the controversial suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Esaaba Torkonoo, the protracted Bawku conflict, the delayed parliamentary election results in Ablekuma North, the Acting Chief Justice’s court case assignment decisions, and the pervasive illegal mining problem. The resolutions reflect the GBA’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting peace and security, and advocating for environmental protection.
The GBA vehemently condemned the President’s suspension of the Chief Justice, deeming it unlawful and unconstitutional. The association argued that the President, not being a judicial officer, lacks the authority to suspend the Chief Justice without established legal procedures as mandated by Article 296 of the 1992 Constitution. The GBA demanded the immediate revocation of the suspension and emphasized the need for transparency by calling for the release of the full ruling that allegedly established a prima facie case against the Chief Justice. Furthermore, they urged the implementation of clear regulations to govern future Article 146 proceedings related to the removal of justices, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding judicial independence against politically motivated actions.
Regarding the persistent conflict in Bawku, the GBA expressed its full support for the ongoing mediation efforts spearheaded by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. Recognizing the devastating impact of the conflict on the region, the association urged all parties involved to cooperate fully with the mediation process. The GBA pledged to leverage its platform and influence to advocate for a peaceful resolution and expressed its commitment to supporting any constitutional and legal measures necessary to ensure lasting peace in Bawku. This commitment underscores the GBA’s dedication to peaceful conflict resolution and the restoration of stability in affected communities.
The GBA also addressed the unresolved parliamentary elections in Ablekuma North, where a winner remained undeclared months after the December 2024 general elections. This delay, the GBA argued, deprives the constituency of crucial parliamentary representation. The association called upon the Electoral Commission, security agencies, and other pertinent authorities to urgently address the impasse and ensure the swift declaration of a winner. This resolution highlights the GBA’s commitment to upholding democratic processes and ensuring fair representation for all citizens.
Furthermore, the GBA expressed its concerns regarding the Acting Chief Justice, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s decisions on court case assignments. While the specific nature of these concerns wasn’t detailed in the resolution, the GBA called for a reversal of these decisions, suggesting potential issues of transparency or fairness in the allocation of cases. This appeal reinforces the GBA’s commitment to ensuring the proper functioning of the judicial system and maintaining public trust in the judiciary.
The final point in the GBA’s resolution focused on the damaging environmental and social consequences of illegal mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey’. The association urged law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to adopt a more proactive and decisive stance against illegal mining activities. They stressed the importance of expediting prosecutions related to galamsey to deter future offenders and protect Ghana’s natural resources. This call to action emphasizes the GBA’s dedication to environmental protection and the sustainable use of natural resources, recognizing the long-term impact of illegal mining activities on the country’s environment and future.
In summary, the Ghana Bar Association’s five-point resolution represents its comprehensive approach to addressing critical national issues. Their stance underscores their unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting peace and security, ensuring fair representation, maintaining transparency within the judiciary, and protecting the environment. The GBA’s active engagement in these matters demonstrates its vital role in promoting good governance and safeguarding the interests of the Ghanaian people. Their call for immediate action on these critical concerns reflects their dedication to fostering a just, equitable, and sustainable society.
