The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has expressed concern over the manner in which the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) attempted to arrest Manhyia South Member of Parliament and lawyer, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, at the Accra High Court.

In a statement issued on Friday, September 25, the GBA said the incident, which occurred on Wednesday, September 23, was particularly troubling because the MP was at the court in his professional capacity as a lawyer representing a client.

The Association also referred to videos of the incident showing another lawyer, Enoch Anhwere Afoakwa, complaining that he had been assaulted by a woman who was later identified by EOCO as one of its officers.

While acknowledging that no individual is above the law, the GBA stressed that law enforcement agencies must respect constitutional protections and established legal procedures when dealing with members of the legal profession.

It warned that failure to observe such safeguards could create perceptions of intimidation and have a chilling effect on lawyers in the discharge of their professional duties.

According to the Association, lawyers play a critical role in the administration of justice and the protection of citizens’ rights, making it essential that they are able to perform their professional responsibilities without undue interference.

The GBA has therefore called on EOCO and other state institutions to ensure that enforcement actions are carried out fairly, lawfully and with due regard for the rights of all persons involved.

It further stressed that the independence of the legal profession is a fundamental pillar of a democratic society and must be protected.

The Association said the rule of law requires not only that justice is done, but also that it is seen and demonstrably done.

Read the full statement below: