First woman Attorney-General Sworn In

Accra, Feb. 26, GNA - President John Evans Atta Mills on Thursday swore in the first woman Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Mrs. Betty Mould-Iddrisu and reminded her to ensure equality of all persons before the law.

He said Ghanaians were not happy about selective justice and wanted to be treated equally before the law. Cases must also be dealt with expeditiously.


"We have no doubt you have what it takes to be Attorney-General," the President said, and urged the Minister to improve upon the workings of the Justice Ministry, since Ghanaians would judge her performance by comparing the performance of the Ministry before she took office and when she would be in office.


The President administered the Oath of Allegiance, Oath of Minister of State and Oath of Secrecy to the Minister. President Mills also presented her with the Instrument of Appointment and a copy of the 1992 constitution.


The President urged the Minister to give Ghanaians hope in the justice system, and said it was necessary that rumours about the system were dispelled to boost the confidence of the international and business communities in the nation's justice system.

"Ghanaians expect the highest standards," the President said, and gave the assurance of the Government to co-operate with Ghanaians to ensure an effective judicial system without sacrificing their ability to stand on their own.


Mr Henry Newman, Chief of Staff, urged the Minister to use her experience as a seasoned legal practitioner to improve the Attorney-General's Department and ensure an effective link between the President, the Judiciary and Parliament.


Dr Kwabena Adjei, Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress, expressed confidence that the Minister would use the position to contribute to the change for better lives that the party promised Ghanaians. Mrs Mould-Iddrisu expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in her.