Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has defended the role of prosecution in ensuring justice in Ghana, stating that legal action is not persecution but a necessary measure to uphold the law and maintain peace.

Speaking at the Annual Bar Conference in Kumasi, he addressed the theme, "Peaceful, Fair and Transparent Elections: The Key to Sustainable Democracy," highlighting the importance of a robust prosecution system in achieving justice and upholding democracy.

Godfred Dame lauded the Prosecutions Division for its commitment to justice, stating that it has "ably lived up to its constitutional duty of being the prosecutor of all crimes in the country."

He noted that despite facing numerous challenges, including "unjustified delays occasioned by the filing of unnecessary applications and frivolous interlocutory appeals," the division has pursued justice "with courage, based on the evidence and the law."

The AG also pointed out the resilience of prosecutors in the face of criticisms and challenges, especially when prosecuting high-profile cases.

"In a country where prosecution of the perceived high and mighty is often mischaracterised as persecution," Godfred Dame said, "they have braved all challenges" and, when necessary, appealed adverse rulings in line with professional standards.

Reflecting on the achievements of the past four years, he highlighted some of the notable cases handled by the division, including a historic high treason trial that led to the conviction of six out of nine accused persons.

"We secured the conviction of six out of the nine surviving accused persons put on trial," Godfred Dame said, underscoring the division's efforts in protecting Ghana's territorial integrity against secession attempts.

The Attorney General also expressed concerns over the ongoing illegal mining (galamsey) activities that continue to harm Ghana's natural resources.

Despite the difficulties faced in prosecuting these offences, Dame highlighted some successes, noting that "from August 2021 to date, at least 76 persons, including eighteen foreigners, have been convicted."

He further applauded the efforts of the Legislative Drafting Division, describing them as the "unsung heroes" of the Office of the Attorney-General.

According to AG Dame, these "well-disciplined, properly-trained, meticulous lawyers" are crucial in setting the legislative framework for all governmental functions.

"Without them, none of the three arms of government can function," he stated, acknowledging their role in drafting about 60 Acts of Parliament and numerous subsidiary legislations.