In a historic election held at the Great Hall of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), legal practitioner Efua Ghartey has emerged as the first female president of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA). Garnering 1,208 votes, she triumphed over Kwadzo Dzakpasu, who received 1,060 votes.
This achievement comes after two previous attempts, where Ghartey narrowly lost to past GBA presidents Tony Forson and Yaw Boafo by margins of 67 and 65 votes, respectively. A seasoned lawyer with over two decades of experience at the bar, Ghartey co-founded the legal firm Ghartey & Ghartey in 1994 with Joe Ghartey.
Having served as the immediate past chair of the Greater Accra branch of the GBA, her election marks a significant breakthrough in the history of the Association, which has been led exclusively by men since its inception. In her acceptance speech, Ghartey expressed her gratitude for the trust placed in her and emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration.
“I am deeply humbled and honored to be the first female President of the Ghana Bar Association. It is a new chapter for the bar, and I promise that we will not disappoint. What we need moving forward is your prayers and support,” she stated. Ghartey also reaffirmed her commitment to safeguarding the legal profession and advancing the rule of law in Ghana, vowing to work diligently for the interests of lawyers and the cause of justice.
Her election has been celebrated as a pivotal moment for women in Ghana’s legal field, symbolizing both her perseverance and dedication to the profession. The outgoing GBA President, Yaw Boafo, expressed his pride in Ghartey’s achievement, noting that her leadership would further the organization’s mission and objectives.
Efua Ghartey’s inauguration is scheduled for Monday, November 4, 2024, and she is expected to lead efforts to promote the rule of law, protect the rights of lawyers, and elevate the profession across the country.