Stories and facts

In the realm of Ghanaian law and politics, Marietta Brew Appiah-Oppong stands as a prominent figure with a career spanning over two decades. Her remarkable journey from a humble beginning in Tema to becoming Ghana's second female Attorney General and Minister for Justice is a testament to her dedication and expertise in the legal field. In this article, we delve into the life, education, career, and contributions of Marietta Brew Appiah-Oppong.

Marietta's educational journey commenced at the Tema Parents Association School, where she laid the foundation for her future endeavours. Her secondary education took place at St Roses Senior High School in Akwatia, where she successfully completed her Ordinary Level Certificate (O level) and Advanced Level Certificate (A level).

Building on this strong educational base, she pursued her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree at the University of Ghana, Legon, and obtained her Professional Certificate to practice law from the Ghana School of Law in 1994. Demonstrating her commitment to continuous learning, Marietta furthered her studies by attending the Institute of Social Studies in The Hague, Netherlands, to earn a graduate diploma in Law and Development.

“The ruling is the decision of the Supreme Court of Ghana. We have nothing to do but to accept it. We disagree with the decision and so we are going to file an application for a review,” she said.

Marietta's professional journey in law commenced at Fugar and Co. law firm, where she gained invaluable experience as a practising lawyer. In the year 2000, she transitioned to Lithur Brew & Company, assuming the role of a shareholder/director.

Over the years, her legal expertise expanded, encompassing areas such as commercial law, transactions, and general corporate advice. She was also recognized as an Honorary Council Member of the Ghana Association of Restructuring and Insolvency Advisors (GARIA).

In February 2013, Marietta's career took a significant turn when she was appointed to serve as the Attorney General and Minister for Justice of the Republic of Ghana by President John Dramani Mahama. During her tenure, which extended until January 2017, she played a pivotal role as the Legal Advisor to the Government of Ghana.

Her responsibilities included representing the presidency, the country, and its ministries and agencies in major transactions and legal matters. Marietta's expertise was not limited to domestic affairs; she also appeared before international tribunals like the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), the International Court of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS).

As a member of the General Legal Council, Marietta had a key role in shaping legal training and professional discipline in Ghana. Additionally, she managed the government's legal responses, oversaw the drafting and presentation of legislation to the Ghanaian Parliament, and supervised the administration of the Ministry of Justice. One of her notable achievements during this time was her involvement in successfully resolving Ghana's maritime dispute with Cote D'Ivoire at the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea (ITLOS).

In June 2018, Marietta Brew Appiah-Oppong's contributions to the legal world earned her a prestigious appointment. She was chosen to serve a three-year term on the International Chamber of Commerce's Court of Arbitration, from July 1, 2018, to June 30, 2021. This significant recognition was made during the ICC's World Council Meeting in Paris on June 21, 2018, highlighting her expertise in arbitration and international law.

Marietta Brew Appiah-Oppong's journey from a young student in Tema to becoming a distinguished legal practitioner and Ghana's Attorney General and Minister for Justice is a story of perseverance, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the law.

Her accomplishments, both domestically and on the international stage, serve as an inspiration for aspiring lawyers and demonstrate the impact of women in positions of authority. Marietta's legacy continues to inspire the legal community, and her contributions to the field of law are nothing short of remarkable.