GBA President Calls for Clear Guidelines on Removal of Judges

Ghana Bar Association News

Mrs. Efua Ghartey is the President of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA). She has called for clear guidelines on removing judges. These procedures are essential for fair treatment in the judiciary.

At the GBA’s mid-year conference in Accra, she emphasized that judges should choose if hearings are public or private. Current laws require in-camera proceedings. She also suggested setting timelines for these hearings.

Mrs. Ghartey believes these guidelines will help resolve petitions fairly and quickly. This would provide justice for judges facing removal. She urged the legal community to be proactive in reforming the system.

Her comments follow ongoing petitions to remove Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. She described this situation as unprecedented in Ghana's legal history. Mrs. Ghartey encouraged Bar members to stay vigilant and monitor developments closely.

However, she advised discretion in monitoring to protect members' freedom of expression. This is especially important for issues with significant public interest that need legal clarity.

One key issue from the Chief Justice’s case is defining a prima facie case. Mrs. Ghartey questioned how such cases are determined and what standards apply. She raised concerns about transparency after filing a petition.

She asked when the public learns about petition contents and if they are frivolous. Steps taken could harm reputations before any conclusions are reached.

The conference theme was “Expanding the Role of the Legal Profession in National Development.” It allowed reflection on pressing issues affecting members and the legal system.

Topics included protecting judicial independence and addressing barriers faced by the Association. Currently, Ghana has 8,263 lawyers, with 123 more expected soon to serve its population of 34.4 million.

Mrs. Ghartey noted that association members play roles across all three branches of government.