Deputy Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr Justice Srem-Sai, has called on the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) to strengthen its independence from political parties and the corridors of political power while remaining committed to defending the public interest.
Dr Srem-Sai expressed concern that the traditional role of the legal profession in Ghana in advocating for the public good could be undermined if the leadership of the Bar becomes increasingly associated with efforts to gain access to national political power.
He made the remarks during the opening of the 2026 Annual Conference of the Ghana Bar Association in Ada on September 14.
GBA Must Protect Public Interest
According to Dr Srem-Sai, growing perceptions that the Bar is aligned with particular political interests could damage public confidence in the Ghana Bar Association.
He warned that the GBA risks being viewed by sections of the public as a mouthpiece for specific political interests rather than an independent institution representing the broader public interest.
The Deputy Attorney-General stressed that the authority and credibility of the Ghana Bar Association depend largely on its ability to remain independent of the state, political parties and individuals holding public office.
He said this independence should extend to the office of the Attorney-General and other senior government officials.
Independence Does Not Mean Silence
Dr Srem-Sai clarified that his call for greater independence should not be interpreted as an appeal for the Ghana Bar Association to withdraw from national discussions.
Instead, he advocated for a strong, visible and principled Bar that actively participates in public discourse while maintaining a clear distance from political convenience.
He said the GBA should remain consistent in defending its principles and continue to engage in matters affecting the public and the country’s legal and constitutional development.
According to him, the Bar should not distance itself from national conversations but should avoid becoming entangled in political interests or the pursuit of political influence.
Lessons From Legal Associations Abroad
Dr Srem-Sai said his position was informed by his experience with professional legal associations in other countries, particularly within the Commonwealth.
He noted that several professional bar associations maintain a strong degree of independence from political authorities while continuing to play an active role in national affairs.
According to him, the experience demonstrates the importance of ensuring that professional legal bodies remain independent, credible and focused on their core responsibilities.
He argued that a politically independent Ghana Bar Association would be better positioned to defend the rule of law, promote justice and advocate for genuine public interest.
State Also Has Responsibility
While calling for greater independence of the legal profession, Dr Srem-Sai said the responsibility should not rest solely with the Ghana Bar Association.
He stressed that demands for an independent legal profession must also be accompanied by a corresponding responsibility on the part of the state to respect and protect that independence.
He said the relationship between the state and the legal profession should be guided by professional integrity, mutual respect and a commitment to the rule of law and public interest.
The Deputy Attorney-General’s comments have renewed discussions about the role of the Ghana Bar Association in national governance, political accountability, professional ethics and the protection of democratic institutions.
Maintaining the independence of the Bar, he suggested, is essential to preserving public trust in Ghana’s legal profession and justice system.
Source: newsthemegh.com