Akoto Ampaw did a lot of pro bono cases; he didn’t focus on money — Prof. Takyiwaa Manuh reveals
Renowned Ghanaian human rights activist, Emerita Prof Takyiwaa Manuh has paid glowing tribute to the late veteran lawyer, Akoto Ampaw affectionately known as 'Shey Shey.'
Speaking on JoyNews’ ‘The Law’, she emphasized that Akoto Ampaw's dedication to the legal profession was not driven by financial gain but a strong commitment to justice and public service.
According to Prof Takyiwaa Manuh, Akoto Ampaw was known for doing cases on pro bono, demonstrating a genuine desire to use his legal expertise to help others especially the less privileged without a focus on financial rewards.
“‘Shey Shey’ was not in the law to make money. If he was, I don’t know where he would put all that money,” she expressed, highlighting the lawyer's selflessness in his legal practice.
Recalling a recent interaction with Akoto Ampaw, Prof Takyiwaa Manuh revealed, “The last time I saw him before he took ill, I was teasing him because he was going to the Supreme Court to prepare an address to the Supreme Court for a client and I knew who the client was, I knew about the case and I was chastising him that he just worked too hard and at the end, he did not even charge properly."
She added, “So one of the standing jokes was that I would go and do his billing for him so that he could at least earn some decent rate, and he laughed because we knew this would not happen.”
Akoto Ampaw, who played a key role as the lead counsel for President Akufo-Addo during the 2020 election petition case, passed away on October 20, 2023 at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) at the age of 73.
Throughout his career, Akoto Ampaw was known for his unwavering commitment to human rights causes and the pursuit of justice.
He graduated from the University of Ghana with an LL.B. in 1973 and obtained a B.L. from the Ghana School of Law in 1993.
A partner in the law firm, Akufo-Addo, Prempeh & Co. founded by President Nana Akufo-Addo, Akoto Ampaw's legacy extends beyond his legal expertise, encompassing a dedicated advocacy for human rights and justice in Ghana.
His influence was particularly evident in his opposition to the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, showcasing his commitment to progressive values and social justice.