Kpebu Warns Newly Called Lawyer-Politicians About Risk Of Losing Their Licences

Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has urged newly qualified lawyers who hold political positions to put professional ethics ahead of party loyalty, warning that misconduct could expose them to disciplinary action, including the possible loss of their practising licences.

His caution comes after the 63rd Call to the Bar ceremony in Accra, where 1,568 new lawyers were formally admitted to Ghana’s legal profession on Friday, October 9, 2026.

Among those called to the Bar were Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations Minister Samuel Nartey George, Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, journalist Umaru Sanda Amadu of Channel One TV and Citi FM, and broadcaster Naa Ashorkor Mensah-Doku.

Speaking to Citi News, Kpebu said the newly qualified lawyer-politicians must ensure that their political affiliations do not influence how they discharge their legal responsibilities. He stressed that membership of a political party should not shield any lawyer from the ethical standards governing the profession.

Kpebu explained that lawyers who engage in conduct considered inconsistent with professional standards could be reported to the General Legal Council, the body responsible for regulating the legal profession in Ghana.

He warned that disciplinary consequences could follow if the council determines that a lawyer’s conduct falls below the required standard. Depending on the circumstances, sanctions could include the withdrawal of the lawyer’s practising licence.

“If the Minister doesn’t place the ethics of the profession high above party loyalty,” Kpebu said, the individual could face professional consequences if their conduct breaches the rules governing lawyers.

He also pointed to the personal and reputational costs of being involved in disciplinary proceedings, noting that such cases can create considerable stress even before a final outcome is reached.

To illustrate his concerns, Kpebu referred to a complaint concerning former Attorney-General Godfred Dame over his alleged conduct in the Jakpa case. He urged the newly called lawyers to consider the scrutiny and public attention that can accompany allegations of professional misconduct.

His remarks echo the broader responsibility highlighted by Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie during the Call to the Bar ceremony. The Chief Justice urged the new lawyers, particularly those working in public-facing positions, to treat the law as a public trust and maintain high standards of integrity.

The large number of new entrants includes individuals who will continue to serve in politics, journalism and other public roles alongside their legal careers.

Kpebu’s message is that professional obligations must remain paramount, regardless of political affiliation or public office. For the newly called lawyers, maintaining that distinction will be essential to protecting both their professional standing and public confidence in the legal system.

Source: https://x.com/citi973/status/2109209881756803403?s=46

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