Ghana has lost one of its most prominent human rights lawyers, Akoto Ampaw, who died on October 20, 2023, at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC). He was 68 years old.
Ampaw was a legal luminary who defended the rights of the oppressed and the marginalized in Ghana. He was also a vocal advocate for democracy, accountability, and anti-corruption. He played a key role in several landmark cases in Ghana’s history, such as the 2013 and 2020 election petitions, where he represented the current president, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Ampaw was also known for his passion for media freedom and free expression. He was a founding member of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), a regional organization that promotes and protects press freedom and human rights in West Africa. He also specialized in media law and represented many journalists and media houses in court.
Ampaw was not afraid to speak his mind on controversial issues, such as the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill that is currently under consideration by Parliament. He opposed the bill on the grounds that it violated the human rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ people in Ghana. He argued that the bill was unconstitutional, discriminatory, and retrogressive.
Ampaw’s death has been met with shock and sadness by many Ghanaians, especially those in the legal fraternity and civil society. His colleagues, friends, and former clients have paid glowing tributes to him, describing him as a brilliant, courageous, humble, and loyal lawyer who fought for justice and fairness.
Among those who have expressed their condolences are Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who called Ampaw his friend and praised his loyalty, commitment, frankness, and humility. President Akufo-Addo also mourned Ampaw’s passing and said he was a “stalwart of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and a strong pillar of the Danquah-Dombo-Busia political tradition.”
Other prominent figures who have paid tribute to Ampaw include former president John Dramani Mahama, former chief justice Sophia Akuffo, former attorney general Martin Amidu, former electoral commissioner Charlotte Osei, and former special prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng.
Ampaw’s family has announced that his funeral will be held on November 18, 2023, at the Accra International Conference Centre. He is survived by his wife and four children.
Ampaw’s legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of many Ghanaians who admired his dedication to human rights and democracy. He will be remembered as a lawyer who used his skills and knowledge to serve his country and his people.
Source: Ghana Web
