The Eastern Regional President of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), Francis Polley Esq., has called on the state to enhance security and protection for judges and lawyers across the country in the face of growing threats against legal professionals.
Mr. Polley raised these concerns during the 43rd Martyrs’ Day Remembrance Service held at the High Court Complex in Koforidua on Monday, June 30, in honour of the three murdered Justices of the High Court.
According to him, the nature of the work undertaken by judges and lawyers, often involving both high- and low-profile criminal cases, makes them vulnerable to targeted attacks from criminal elements and syndicates.
“Judges can be targets because of the cases they preside over. Criminals and their syndicates may attempt to retaliate or intimidate. If judges are not adequately protected, we risk losing more lives,” he cautioned.
He stressed the need for immediate steps to be taken to protect judicial officers, especially judges and magistrates, while acknowledging the challenge in extending such protection to all lawyers due to their large numbers.
“Although it may be difficult for the state to provide security for every lawyer, I sincerely pray that security is at least assured for judges and magistrates,” he added.
In a related address, the Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Awatey, urged the Ghana Bar Association to strengthen its collaboration with the government and civil society organisations.
She emphasised that such partnerships are crucial to ensuring equal access to justice and reinforcing the pillars of Ghana’s democratic governance.
Source: CNR
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