The Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice has directed the newly sworn-in board of the Legal Service to prioritise negotiations for improved remuneration for legal staff at the Attorney General’s Department.

Speaking at the inauguration of the board, Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, emphasised that lawyers at the ministry are underpaid, a challenge which undermines their efficiency and commitment.

"We need to be able to up our game when it comes to salaries and remuneration. I have been making, and will continue to make, a strong case to the government and the president, so that we can review the remuneration of lawyers working at the AG’s Department," he stated.

He further noted that poor remuneration in the justice sector contributes to high attrition, with many young lawyers treating the ministry as a training ground before moving elsewhere.

“The justice sector generally is a problem when it comes to remuneration. That is something I want to work seriously with you to resolve once and for all, so that we can attract and retain the best talent. It is one thing to attract them, but another to retain them. Some exit because they use here as a training ground, since this is the best place to be trained in every aspect of the law,” he added.

Dr. Ayine, who also serves as chairman of the Legal Service Board, charged members to provide strategic leadership and strengthen the capacity of staff in order to elevate professionalism within the service.

“The board is expected to provide strategic direction, oversight, and leadership required to strengthen the Legal Service and build the capacity of its officers. I am confident that with your collective expertise and commitment, you will help chart a course that will elevate the Legal Service to the highest levels of professionalism and integrity.”

Board Members

Attorney General and Chairman – Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, MP

Deputy Attorney General – Justice Srem Sai, Ph.D.

Solicitor General – Helen Akpene Awo Ziwu

Justice of the Supreme Court nominated by the Chief Justice – Justice Avril Lovelace Johnson

Chairman of the Public Services Commission – Michael Nana Yaw Aduhene Adu Darko

Representative of the Ghana Bar Association – Kweku Gyau Baffour

Two persons appointed by the President:

Michael Damoah

Rosaline Awovi Kudzoadzi