By Celestine Avi
The leadership of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), led by its President, Mrs. Efua Ghartey, has paid a courtesy call on President John Dramani Mahama to discuss legal reforms, judicial infrastructure, and collaboration between the Bar and government.
The meeting, which brought together GBA executives from all regions, including former GBA President Sam Okudzeto, addressed key concerns affecting the legal profession and governance in Ghana.
During the engagement, Mrs. Ghartey formally congratulated President Mahama and announced that Ghana will host the Africa Bar Conference from October 19 to 23 in Accra, extending an official invitation to him. She also confirmed that the National Bar Conference will take place in Wa from September 14 to 19.
Call for Judicial Infrastructure Support
As part of their discussions, the GBA requested additional funding for the completion of court complexes in Wa, Cape Coast, and Tema, emphasizing the need for improved judicial infrastructure.
Mrs. Ghartey reiterated the Bar’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and expressed the association’s readiness to collaborate with the government to strengthen legal enforcement, environmental protection, and national security.
President Mahama’s Response
President Mahama assured the GBA leadership that his government holds no prejudice against the association and remains open to constructive criticism, recognizing feedback as an essential tool for improving governance.
Addressing Economic Challenges and Judicial Funding
Speaking on the broader economic situation, President Mahama acknowledged the financial strain caused by debt repayments and budgetary constraints affecting all three arms of government.
However, he emphasized that uncapping the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) under his administration would free up resources to complete pending court infrastructure projects.
The meeting reinforced the need for stronger collaboration between the government and the legal community to enhance justice delivery, judicial infrastructure, and the rule of law in Ghana.
