GBA warns Afenyo-Markin over attacks on judiciary

The Ghana Bar Association has cautioned Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin against public attacks on judges.

The association described his recent comments about a Circuit Court judge as unacceptable and harmful to judicial independence.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story on Monday, Public Relations Officer of the GBA, Saviour Kudze, said the association remained firmly opposed to any conduct by lawyers that undermines the judiciary.

“We will never condone such conduct. Over the years, we have consistently cautioned and condemned similar behaviour by lawyers,” he stated.

Mr. Kudze criticised the comments made by the Minority Leader, who is also a senior member of the legal profession, saying his status demanded greater restraint and respect for the courts.

“I will not mince words in saying that what the Minority Leader, a senior lawyer at the Bar, has done is condemnable at every level. A senior lawyer who also holds a public position ought to have done better,” he added.

The controversy follows remarks by Mr. Afenyo-Markin over the continued remand of Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC.

During a press conference on Sunday, May 17, 2026, the Minority Leader questioned the legal basis for the remand, arguing that the matter raised constitutional concerns relating to bail and freedom of expression.

He also openly criticised the presiding judge in the case.

“That Circuit Court 9 judge, I have no respect for him. I pray he summons me for contempt. I will continue to disrespect him until he upholds the law. It’s a shame on the judiciary, he doesn’t talk law,” he said.

Responding to the remarks, Mr. Kudze said lawyers dissatisfied with judicial decisions must pursue redress through established legal procedures rather than public attacks.

“If you are dissatisfied, you appeal. You don’t go on air to attack the judge,” he said.

He further noted that the GBA had taken similar positions in previous incidents involving lawyers, including comments made by lawyer Francis-Xavier Sosu in 2022.