A senior law lecturer at the University of Ghana School of Law and prominent legal practitioner, Dr Justice Srem Sai, has expressed profound gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for nominating him as Deputy Attorney-General and Minister for Justice.
His nomination, subject to parliamentary approval, has been met with excitement, particularly among Ghana’s youth and civil society activists who have long regarded him as a formidable advocate for justice and democracy.
Dr Srem Sai, in a public statement following his nomination, acknowledged the significant responsibility attached to the role, emphasizing that his appointment is not only an honor but also a challenge to represent the “revived aspiration of the young people of our beloved nation.”
Quoting his mentor, Dr Dominic Ayine, the MP for Bolgatanga East and the current Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Srem Sai underscored his commitment to “Leadership, Justice, Equality, and Fairness to all,” signalling his intent to bring principled legal advocacy to the Office of the Attorney-General.
His nomination comes at a critical juncture when Ghana’s legal and governance structures are under intense public scrutiny.
As a prominent legal academic and practitioner, Srem Sai’s expertise in constitutional law and human rights has earned him a reputation for fearlessly defending civil liberties and challenging state overreach.
A Life Dedicated to Justice and Civil Rights
Among those who have openly celebrated his nomination is activist and #FixTheCountry convener Osagyefo Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who offered a deeply personal tribute to Srem Sai.
Barker-Vormawor, who has worked closely with Srem Sai in defending activists and protesters against state repression, described the nominee as an unwavering pillar in Ghana’s fight for democracy.
His tribute painted a vivid picture of Srem Sai’s dedication to the cause of justice, highlighting his role in defending activists arrested during the #FixTheCountry movement and the OccupyJulorbiHouse protests.
According to Barker-Vormawor, Srem Sai’s contributions were instrumental in ensuring that fundamental rights such as the freedom to assemble and speak freely were defended at the highest legal levels.
“Every activist deserves a lawyer like Justice—a lawyer who, even in disagreement, never abandons you. A lawyer who understands that this fight for justice, for democracy, for the soul of this republic, cannot be won through convention alone.
“That sometimes, the road to redemption requires both the paths well-travelled and the ones no one dares to take. Without him, there would be no FixTheCountry. No Democracy Hub as we know it”.
Osagyefo Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor
Barker-Vormawor also credited Justice Srem Sai with leading the Lawyers for Protest Defence movement, an initiative that mobilized young legal professionals to stand as defenders of democratic rights.
For him, Srem Sai’s work in this space has made him a beloved figure among young activists, who see his nomination as a victory for the broader struggle for justice and accountability in Ghana.
“From the very first Supreme Court battle to the last OccupyJulorbiHouse arrests, he has been there. Always there. And when history tells the story of our struggle, it will speak of the Lawyers for Protest Defence—the movement he built to defend the right to assemble, the right to speak, the right to dissent. A movement that, for the first time, marshalled young lawyers to stand as guardians of our democracy.”
Osagyefo Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor
With a legal career defined by an unflinching commitment to human rights and constitutional integrity, Srem Sai’s transition from legal advocacy to government presents both opportunities and challenges.
As Deputy Attorney-General, Barker-Vormawor pointed out Srem Sai will be part of the government’s legal machinery, responsible for advising the state on critical legal matters, prosecuting cases on behalf of the government, and shaping legal policy.
He hopes that Srem Sai’s track record of defending civil liberties will influence the Justice Ministry’s approach to issues such as press freedom, judicial independence, and the rule of law.
However, his appointment also raises questions about how he will navigate the often political nature of government legal work, particularly when state interests collide with individual freedoms.
His critics will be watching closely to see whether he remains as committed to justice in government as he was in the courtroom. His ability to balance his activist roots with the demands of public office will be a defining test of his tenure.
Srem Sai’s nomination is being interpreted by many as a strategic move by President Mahama to tap into the energy and credibility of Ghana’s younger generation.
Over the years, the #FixTheCountry movement and other youth-led political initiatives have reshaped public discourse, challenging entrenched political interests and demanding accountability.
By bringing a figure like Srem Sai into government, President Mahama’s team may be signalling a broader commitment to legal reforms and youth inclusion in governance. For Barker-Vormawor and other activists, the appointment is deeply symbolic.
“Today, I lose a lawyer. But Ghana gains something far greater—a Deputy Attorney-General and Deputy Minister for Justice with an unbreakable spirit and an unshakable moral compass. I am proud beyond words. Kudos to the first #FixTheCountry Deputy Attorney-General”.
Osagyefo Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor
His words reflect the high hopes pinned on Srem Sai, not just as a government appointee, but as a figure who represents the possibility of principled leadership in Ghana’s justice system.
