A Ghanaian citizen, Daniel Kwame Ofosu-Appiah, has lodged a formal complaint with the General Legal Council (GLC) accusing former Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, of professional misconduct. The allegations stem from the ongoing trial of Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and others.
Allegations of Witness Tampering
The complaint alleges that Mr. Dame attempted to influence the testimony of Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the case, through unprofessional conduct. The allegations are based on an audio recording and WhatsApp messages between Mr. Dame and Mr. Jakpa, which form part of the evidence submitted.
Breach of Professional Conduct
The petitioner claims that Mr. Dame’s actions constitute a breach of multiple provisions of the Legal Profession (Professional Conduct and Etiquette) Rules, 2020, including violations related to honesty, witness tampering, and undermining the administration of justice.
Call for Disciplinary Action
Mr. Ofosu-Appiah is urging the GLC’s Disciplinary Committee to consider sanctions ranging from suspension to removal from the roll of lawyers. The petitioner asserts that Mr. Dame’s conduct demonstrates a clear disregard for professional ethics and the integrity of the legal process.
Implications for the Legal Profession
This development has significant implications for the legal profession in Ghana, highlighting the importance of upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity in the administration of justice. The GLC’s response to this petition will be closely watched, with potential consequences for Mr. Dame’s legal career.
