By: Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
Acting Chief Justice Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has called on newly qualified lawyers to uphold the core values of integrity, humility, and service to humanity as they begin their professional journey in Ghana’s legal fraternity.
Addressing the 2025 Call to the Bar ceremony held at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) on Friday, October 10, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie urged the 824 new lawyers to dedicate themselves to serving society particularly the poor and vulnerable with honesty and professionalism.
“You have chosen a path that demands courage, but it is a path that leads to purpose and fulfilling greatness. Congratulations again, our newly qualified lawyers. May you serve with humility and serve with purpose; above all, let your integrity shine,” he said.
Touching on ongoing debates about reforming legal education in Ghana, the Acting Chief Justice cautioned against reforms that focus only on expanding access to law schools without improving the quality of legal training.
He emphasised that true reform must prepare lawyers to meet the demands of the 21st century and strengthen the ethical foundations of the profession.
“We must, however, ensure that the reforms we seek do not merely expand the numbers but truly refine the very purpose of legal education in Ghana in the 21st Century,” he stated.
This year’s call to the bar saw a diverse cohort of lawyers, including 47-year-old Taiwanese national Chienchun Chen, whose presence drew applause from guests and symbolised Ghana’s growing global appeal in legal education.
The ceremony, attended by dignitaries from the Judicial Service, Ghana Bar Association, and academia, highlighted the need for continuous mentorship and ethical discipline among legal practitioners.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s charge reinforces the judiciary’s ongoing campaign for integrity and professionalism within the justice system a message that resonates strongly amid growing public calls for accountability and transparency in legal practice.
