The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) is set to hold its highly anticipated national elections tomorrow, September 11, with the legal community bracing for what could be a historic outcome.
The election, which determines the leadership of the Association, has garnered significant attention due to the strong presence of two outstanding female candidates vying for the top leadership roles.
Among the candidates is Mrs. Efua Ghartey, a seasoned lawyer making her third bid for the position of National President. Mrs. Ghartey’s perseverance in previous elections—where she narrowly lost by 67 votes to Mr. Anthony Forson and 65 votes to the current president, Mr. Yaw Acheampong Boafo—has earned her wide respect within the legal community.
Known for her advocacy for women’s rights and extensive contributions to the Bar, Mrs. Ghartey’s candidacy this year is seen by many as a potential breakthrough for gender representation at the highest levels of the GBA.
In parallel, Mrs. Victoria Barth, another formidable figure in Ghana’s legal landscape, is running for the role of National Vice President. Mrs. Barth’s experience as a teacher at the Ghana School of Law has earned her the admiration of numerous young lawyers who view her as a mentor.
Her national profile rose during her role as a key member of President Nana Akufo-Addo’s legal team in the 2021 election petition case, further solidifying her credentials for leadership.
The potential election of both Mrs. Ghartey and Mrs. Barth has generated widespread anticipation. Their victory would not only mark a historic shift in the traditionally male-dominated leadership of the GBA but also serve as a reflection of the recent strides made toward gender equality, especially in light of the recent passage of the Affirmative Action Act aimed at empowering women in leadership.