It betrays their mindset, I’ve shut my ears – Amaliba on GBA’s U-turn

Private lawyer Abraham Amaliba has raised concerns about the Ghana Bar Association (GBA). He questioned their integrity after they called for the reinstatement of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.

Amaliba spoke on Morning Starr with Naa Dedei Tettey. He expressed skepticism about the GBA's changing position. He believes it no longer represents the voiceless or speaks with moral authority.

He noted, “They urged President Mahama to take action.” This was contrary to their earlier statement asking everyone to wait for a final outcome. Amaliba asked what had changed since then.

He criticized the GBA, saying it now appears easily influenced. “It makes them look like an association that can be tossed around,” he added. He feels they no longer advocate for the voiceless and has stopped paying attention to them.

Amaliba’s comments came after a resolution from 43 GBA members at their mid-year conference in Accra on April 26, 2025. The resolution deemed the presidential suspension of the Chief Justice as unfair and unjustified. It claimed that the petitions against her lacked sufficient evidence.

The GBA also expressed concern over judicial independence erosion. After reviewing five petitions and the Chief Justice’s responses, they found no reason for such a drastic measure.

President John Dramani Mahama announced her suspension on April 22, 2025. He determined there was a prima facie case under Article 146(10) of the 1992 Constitution. This decision followed consultations with the Council of State and involved appointing a committee to investigate allegations.

GBA President Efua Ghartey addressed members at the conference. She emphasized that transparency is crucial for protecting judicial integrity. She assured both legal professionals and the public that the Association would monitor developments closely to ensure fairness and accountability.