President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo congratulated Mrs. Efua Ghartey and Mrs. Victoria Osei-Bonsu Barth on their election to the top positions within the Ghana Bar Association (GBA).
In a message posted on his X account, President Akufo-Addo praised Mrs Ghartey for becoming the first female National President of the Bar Council after three previous attempts and Mrs Barth for her election as Vice President.
President Akufo-Addo recalled his visit in December 2018, when he laid the foundation for what would become a milestone for the GBA. “Mrs Ghartey’s determination and perseverance have finally been rewarded,” he said.
“This victory is significant as it coincides with the recent passage of the Affirmative Action Act, making it a powerful statement in our journey towards gender equality.”
He lauded the elections as a turning point in Ghana’s legal profession, which men historically dominated.
“Mrs. Ghartey and Mrs. Barth have shattered the glass ceiling, paving the way for young women to aspire to leadership roles. Their victory is a beacon of hope for women and girls aiming for prominence in traditionally male-dominated fields.”
The GBA elections, held on September 11, 2024, saw Efua Ghartey elected as President with 54.24% of the votes, defeating Agbesi Dzakpasu, who received 44.95%.
Victoria Osei-Bonsu Barth was elected Vice President with 68.87% of the vote, surpassing Ebenezer Kwatoo, who garnered 20.99%.
Ghartey, a seasoned lawyer with over 30 years of experience, had previously run for the presidency twice, narrowly losing to Tony Forson and Yaw Boafo. Her perseverance and advocacy for women’s rights played a significant role in her eventual success.
Victoria Osei-Bonsu Barth, known for her distinguished academic and professional contributions, including her role in President Akufo-Addo’s 2021 election petition, also received notable support from younger members of the Bar.
The GBA’s 2024 annual general conference, held at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), marked the end of Yaw Acheampong Boafo’s tenure as President.
Boafo, who succeeded Anthony Forson Jnr., had previously defeated Efua Ghartey in the 2021 election.
President Akufo-Addo’s message celebrated the achievements of the new GBA leaders and highlighted the broader significance of their election in advancing gender equality within the legal profession.
