Ghana is preparing for a new chapter under the leadership of John Dramani Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), with one of the most critical appointments being the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice.
Speaking at the 4th Annual NDC Lawyers Conference in Ho a few months ago, Mr. Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to appointing an Attorney-General who will serve as a true Minister for Justice rather than a political wing director.
He emphasized the need for a legal mind capable of safeguarding democracy and tackling corruption, which he described as a “cancerous tumour” undermining Ghana’s institutions. The next Attorney-General, he stated, must embody the values of social justice, probity, and accountability while driving bold reforms to strengthen the justice system.
In line with this vision, Mr. Mahama announced plans to reintroduce the public tribunal system, as outlined in the 1992 Constitution.
Against this backdrop, the appointment of the Attorney-General becomes a defining moment for the Mahama administration. The individual chosen must possess brilliance, reformist vision, and the courage to address Ghana’s legal and governance challenges while prioritizing the nation’s progress over political considerations.
Below is a THSJ analysis of the key contenders for this role, presented in alphabetical order:
1. Amanda Akuokor Clinton
Amanda Clinton stands out as a dynamic corporate lawyer with substantial courtroom experience. Known for handling high-profile cases and excelling in international arbitration, she represents a fresh perspective, unburdened by traditional political loyalties. Clinton brings the rare combination of bold advocacy and logical, practical policy-making.
Unlike her predecessors, Clinton has extensive advocacy experience, making her a strong contender as the “third time’s the charm” female Attorney-General. She could redefine the role with bold leadership, balanced by level-headed governance that prioritizes innovation and merit over politics. Her appointment would signal a transformative step for the NDC and the nation.
She brings extensive expertise in constitutional law and commercial litigation, with a proven track record of contributing to critical public discussions. Notably, she has provided insights on why the Special Prosecutor should remain in office and analyzed the Supreme Court’s legal authority to intervene in parliamentary matters.
2. Agbesie Kwadzo Dzakpasu
Agbesie Dzakpasu is a seasoned lawyer with a robust background in administrative law, litigation, and governance strategy. His expertise spans banking and finance law, energy, pensions, and media law. As a former President of the Greater Accra Regional Bar, he has demonstrated leadership and commitment to advancing legal practice in Ghana.
Dzakpasu’s ability to navigate complex legal landscapes and his focus on effective governance make him a formidable candidate. In 2024, he contested the presidency of the Ghana Bar Association, further solidifying his reputation as a legal leader dedicated to justice and institutional reform.
3. Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe
A prominent member of the NDC’s legal team, Edudzi Tamakloe has played an instrumental role in high-stakes legal battles and is currently the party’s Director of Legal Affairs. Tamakloe’s deep understanding of political and legal dynamics makes him a valuable bridge between governance and justice.
His active involvement in shaping the NDC’s legal strategy, coupled with his litigation expertise, underscores his readiness to take on the role of Attorney-General. Tamakloe’s commitment to party ideals, combined with a focus on national progress, could make him an effective and balanced leader in the justice system.
4. Marietta Brew Appiah-Oppong
Marietta Brew Appiah-Oppong is a distinguished lawyer who served as Ghana’s Attorney General and Minister for Justice from 2013 to 2017. Known for her expertise in commercial law and governance, she played a pivotal role in securing Ghana’s maritime rights in the landmark dispute with Côte d’Ivoire at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS). This achievement showcased her ability to handle high-stakes legal matters with precision and dedication.
She also brings extensive experience from her work at Lithur Brew & Company, where she specialized in corporate advisory services and commercial litigation. Her appointment to the International Chamber of Commerce’s Court of Arbitration further highlights her global standing in legal practice.
With academic qualifications from the University of Ghana, Ghana School of Law, and the Institute of Social Studies in the Netherlands, Appiah-Oppong combines legal expertise with a commitment to institutional reform. Her leadership would bring a wealth of experience and a strong focus on transparency and accountability to Ghana’s legal system.
5. Nutifafa Nutsukpui
Nutifafa Nutsukpui is an experienced lawyer with specialization in corporate law and litigation. Known for his meticulous legal strategies, he has represented clients in high-profile cases, including his role in the COCOBOD trial, where his incisive cross-examinations drew significant attention.
Nutsukpui’s professional background equips him to address Ghana’s legal challenges while fostering a business-friendly legal environment. His pragmatic approach to legal practice positions him as a candidate who could bridge governance and economic reform through the justice system.
6. Prof. Abdul Baasit Aziz Bamba
Prof. Abdul Baasit Aziz Bamba is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana School of Law and a scholar of Constitutional Law, Human Rights Law, and International Commercial Arbitration. Holding doctoral and master’s degrees from Harvard Law School, he has worked as a consultant for the World Bank and the Government of Ghana.
Prof. Bamba’s blend of academic brilliance and practical legal expertise could integrate legal reforms with Ghana’s developmental goals. His scholarly approach to justice reform, coupled with a deep understanding of international and constitutional law, makes him an exceptional candidate for the Attorney-General role.
7. Thaddeus Sory
Thaddeus Sory, Managing Partner at Sory@Law, is one of Ghana’s most respected legal practitioners. With a career spanning over two decades, he has extensive experience in constitutional law, commercial litigation, mergers and acquisitions, and legal consultancy. Sory also lectures in Advocacy and Legal Ethics at the Ghana School of Law, shaping the next generation of lawyers.
His vast legal experience, coupled with his deep understanding of governance, positions him as a practical choice for Attorney-General. Sory’s track record reflects a commitment to justice, transparency, and reform.
Brains, Not Just Loyalty
The next Attorney-General must transcend the traditional view of this office as a purely political appointment. Ghana needs a legal mind capable of:
- Overhauling the justice system to reduce case backlogs and ensure equal access to justice.
- Fighting corruption with robust measures to restore public trust.
- Supporting economic growth by fostering a business-friendly legal environment.
- Promoting accountability by prioritizing transparency and fiscal discipline.
This article reflects an opinion for the potential candidates for the Attorney-General position under the Mahama administration. It highlights the qualities and expertise required to meet the urgent demands of Ghana’s legal and governance landscape.
John Dramani Mahama’s pledge to appoint a true Minister for Justice and his vision to reintroduce public tribunals, as noted by The High Street Journal and previously highlighted in a Graphic Online publication, underscore a critical juncture for Ghana. The country needs transformative leadership that prioritizes transparency, equity, and public participation in its justice system.
