Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo Urges Lawyers to Uphold National Integrity

Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has urged lawyers to refrain from participating in activities that undermine the nation’s progress.

“Lawyers must not engage in actions that threaten the national economy, whether it pertains to politics, the environment, or social issues,” she stated.

Speaking at the enrollment of 777 new lawyers at the Accra International Conference Centre, the Chief Justice emphasized the responsibility of legal professionals to use their knowledge and skills to contribute positively to the nation’s growth and development.

During her address, she encouraged the new lawyers to leverage their education for social engineering and to establish their roles within the legal community.

“When the country is thriving, it is your duty to support its development. In challenging times, it falls upon lawyers to advocate for shaping a new vision for the nation,” she remarked. “Lawyers must avoid involvement in conversations that could harm or divide the country.”

She urged the newly qualified lawyers to become community leaders, equipped with refreshed knowledge that aligns with societal expectations.

“As you leave with your certificates, you are called to apply the skills, knowledge, and values acquired in law school to serve your communities. This includes evaluating, reasoning, and applying the law to solve real-world problems,” she added.

The Chief Justice noted the vital role of law in structuring and supporting societal development, asserting that to combat wrongdoing, law and legal practice must lead the way.

She also addressed global challenges such as virtual reality and digital technology, stressing that Ghana must engage with these changes in all economic sectors.

“Entertainment has evolved, and currency has taken on a global dimension, affecting trade and communication,” she explained. “In this era of the internet and artificial intelligence, we must remain vigilant against fake news and misinformation.”

Recognizing that human innovation often outpaces legal frameworks, she encouraged the lawyers to embrace technology and commit to lifelong learning.

In closing, Chief Justice Torkornoo congratulated the new lawyers for passing their examinations and achieving their aspirations of becoming legal professionals.