GBA adopts 10-point resolution at 2026 Ada Conference

The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has adopted a ten-point resolution outlining its position on judicial independence, human rights, legal education, artificial intelligence, constitutional reform and other matters affecting Ghana’s justice system.

The resolution, adopted at the Association’s 2026 Annual Conference in Ada, also contains commitments on lawyers’ welfare, professional ethics, illegal mining and public service.

1. Constitutionalism, rule of law and judicial independence

The GBA reaffirmed its commitment to constitutionalism, the rule of law, separation of powers and the independence and impartiality of the Judiciary.

It described these principles as indispensable foundations of Ghana’s democratic governance and urged actors within the justice sector to conduct themselves in ways that preserve public confidence in the administration of justice.

2. Protection of human rights and constitutional liberties

The Association called on investigative and prosecutorial authorities to ensure that arrest, detention and bail practices comply with the Constitution.

It said such decisions must be reasonable and proportionate, while respecting the presumption of innocence and the constitutional rights of all persons.

The GBA also supported the establishment of appropriate mechanisms within the Association to monitor and respond to human rights concerns.

3. Lawyer welfare and professional development

The GBA resolved to expand its welfare programmes for members in good standing.

The proposed measures include an NFC-enabled smart card to improve lawyer identification and access to credit, enhanced health insurance, improved death benefits and affordable housing and vehicle-financing schemes.

The Association also pledged to advocate for fair remuneration and introduce other interventions aimed at improving lawyers’ well-being.

4. Professional standards, ethics and integrity

The Association urged lawyers to uphold high standards of ethics, professionalism, competence and integrity, particularly as legal education reforms are expected to increase the number of people entering the profession.

Although it welcomed regulatory reforms intended to strengthen legal ethics and professional standards, the GBA maintained that such measures must be developed in consultation with the Bar.

5. Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies

The GBA encouraged legal practitioners to embrace and responsibly integrate artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies into their work.

It said the proper use of technology could improve efficiency, expand access to justice, promote innovation and strengthen the administration of justice.

However, the Association cautioned that lawyers must comply with ethical standards, confidentiality obligations and data protection requirements when using AI. It stressed that practitioners remain personally responsible and accountable for all work produced with the assistance of such technologies.

6. Legal education reform

The Association called on the government to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders in implementing legal education reforms without compromising professional standards and excellence.

It reiterated that the GBA is a key stakeholder in the reform process and demanded improved communication and consultation between the state and the Bar.

7. Justice-sector modernisation

The GBA urged the Judiciary and other relevant institutions to accelerate the modernisation of Ghana’s justice system through improved court infrastructure, technological innovation and digital transformation.

It also called for the activation of systems capable of improving the efficiency and accessibility of justice delivery.

The Association further asked the Judiciary and state institutions to intensify efforts to address the longstanding infrastructure deficits affecting courts across the country.

8. Constitutional and legislative reform

The GBA pledged to participate actively in the ongoing constitutional review and other law reform processes.

It said it would continue scrutinising proposed legislative and institutional reforms to ensure that they protect constitutional governance, democratic accountability, judicial independence and the rule of law.

The Association objected to what it described as ongoing attempts to diminish its role under Ghana’s Constitution, arguing that the Bar has played a central and historic role in the country’s constitutional development.

It called for broader consultations on the proposed constitutional amendments and recommended the creation of a constituent assembly to make the process more inclusive.

The GBA also expressed concern about the speed with which the Tribunals Act, 2026 (Act 1181) was passed. It said it had initiated a review to determine whether the Act complies with constitutional standards and the established traditions of legal practice in Ghana.

At the same time, the Association welcomed the inauguration of the Governing Board of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre. It said the promotion of ADR could improve access to justice, facilitate faster dispute resolution and strengthen investor confidence in Ghana’s legal and business environment.

9. Fight against illegal mining

The GBA renewed its concern over the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

It called on the government to enforce the law firmly, consistently and without regard to the political affiliation, position or influence of those involved.

According to the Association, decisive action is required to protect Ghana’s forests, water bodies and farmlands, as well as the welfare of present and future generations.

10. Public service and community engagement

The GBA concluded its resolution by reaffirming its commitment to public service, legal literacy, community engagement and initiatives aimed at expanding access to justice.

It also pledged to implement legacy projects that promote education, social development and national progress.