The recent announcement of Marietta Brew Appiah-Oppong as the incoming Legal Counsel to the President by President-elect John Dramani Mahama has been met with positive reactions, particularly from Kow Essuman, the outgoing Legal Counsel under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Essuman, via a social media post, expressed his immense satisfaction with the decision, applauding the retention of the office itself and the selection of Appiah-Oppong, a distinguished lawyer and former Attorney-General, to fill the role. He underscored the importance of continuity in the Presidency, emphasizing the significance of maintaining such a crucial advisory position regardless of the changing political landscape. This move signals a commitment to institutional stability and a recognition of the value brought by the Office of the Legal Counsel to the President.
Essuman’s commendation carries weight, as he himself pioneered the role under President Akufo-Addo, becoming the first and youngest person to hold the position. His personal experience allows him a unique perspective on the demands and responsibilities associated with advising the President on legal matters. Therefore, his endorsement of Appiah-Oppong speaks volumes about her credentials and suitability for the role. He specifically highlighted her extensive legal experience and distinguished reputation within the legal fraternity, expressing confidence in her ability to navigate the complexities of the position and provide sound legal counsel to the incoming President.
The appointment of Appiah-Oppong signals a return to a familiar role for her, having previously served as Attorney-General during Mahama’s earlier tenure as President. This prior experience in high-level government legal affairs provides her with invaluable insights into the workings of the Presidency and the legal intricacies involved in policy formulation and implementation. It also suggests a level of trust and rapport between Appiah-Oppong and Mahama, vital for effective collaboration in such a sensitive and demanding position. Her familiarity with the President’s governing style and priorities will likely facilitate a smooth transition and ensure a seamless continuation of legal advisory services within the Presidency.
Appiah-Oppong’s appointment forms part of a broader series of appointments announced by the President-elect for key positions within the Office of the President. These appointments, including Julius Debrah as Chief of Staff and Dr. Callistus Mahama as Executive Secretary to the President, represent the incoming administration’s efforts to assemble a competent and experienced team to support the President’s agenda. The collective experience and expertise of these appointees suggest a focus on building a strong and effective leadership structure within the Presidency, capable of addressing the complex challenges facing the nation.
The strategic placement of experienced individuals in key roles underscores the importance of these positions in shaping the direction of the government and ensuring the smooth functioning of the Presidency. The selection of Appiah-Oppong specifically, with her legal background and prior experience in government, highlights the incoming administration’s commitment to maintaining a high standard of legal counsel and ensuring that the President receives informed and well-considered legal advice. This emphasis on legal expertise signals a focus on upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all government actions are conducted within the framework of the constitution.
The overall message from both Essuman’s endorsement and Appiah-Oppong’s appointment is one of continuity, professionalism, and a commitment to strengthening the institutional framework of the Presidency. The incoming administration appears to be prioritizing experience and expertise in its appointments, aiming to create a stable and effective leadership structure. The retention of the Office of the Legal Counsel, combined with the appointment of a seasoned legal professional like Appiah-Oppong, signals a dedication to maintaining high standards of legal practice within the Presidency and ensuring the President has access to sound legal guidance in all matters of governance. This commitment to legal integrity and the smooth transition of power bodes well for the future stability and effectiveness of the Ghanaian Presidency.
