Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has reflected on the challenges and achievements of his tenure since taking office in 2021.

Speaking at the Annual Ghana Bar Association Conference in Kumasi, Mr Dame emphasized the difficulties that come with being an Attorney-General in the second term of a government, particularly when tasked with balancing legal principles and government policies.

In his address, delivered under the theme, "Peaceful, Fair, and Transparent Elections: The Key to Sustainable Democracy," he acknowledged the weight of his role, especially when making unpopular decisions that may clash with political goals or public opinion.

“The task of being an Attorney-General in the second term of a government is no easy one. It involves coming in at a time that the government has implemented a set of policies in its first term and made some tough decisions that may not necessarily be popular with the people,” he said.

The Attorney-General recounted moments when his legal opinions were crucial, yet challenging for government colleagues to accept, particularly referencing the domestic debt restructuring program and critical decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I remember the painful opinion I gave to the Minister for Finance on the domestic debt restructuring at a difficult time for the nation, as well as the advice I gave to the Minister for Health at perhaps a more difficult time in the history of the nation, during the COVID-19 crisis,” he noted.

He further elaborated on the delicate position he often finds himself in, having to make decisions that may place him at odds with both his political allies and adversaries. “As Attorney-General, it involves making yourself unpopular by telling your colleague ministers that they cannot pursue certain legislation and policies, which, although in the national interest, may be incompatible with the law,” Dame explained. He added that, in the eyes of political opponents, his role in prosecutions or civil cases often makes him appear as a "sworn enemy."

Despite these hurdles, Mr Dame expressed pride in his work and affirmed his commitment to the rule of law.

“I have braved the challenges of the office and remained undaunted because I love the law, and I love utilising the law as an instrument for developing Ghanaian society. With courage and strength, I have taken the slings and arrows of a critical free media, even when they are unjustified or wrong,” he asserted.

Mr Dame highlighted that the Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice has had a significant impact on justice in Ghana, with far-reaching authority across various sectors.

Reflecting on his accomplishments, he stated, “Whatever I have done since 2021, I have done it in the best interests of Ghana and state attorneys and staff at the Law Office. I could not be prouder of our record of achievement over the last three and a half years.”

The Attorney-General concluded by reiterating that he has not only fulfilled but, in some cases, exceeded the promises he made during his initial address to the GBA Conference in Bolgatanga in 2021.

“I have delivered and in some cases exceeded the delivery of every single promise I have made to you,” Dame affirmed.