Freetown, 14th July, 2026 – The Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) has moved to clarify its position following a press release issued by Ms. Martina Baindu Egbenda on July 13, 2026, which questioned the legality of the Association’s electronic registration exercise ahead of its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and elections.
In a statement, the SLBA Executive welcomed constructive dialogue from members but stressed that Ms. Egbenda’s assertions were based on what it described as a “misinterpretation” of the Association’s Memorandum and Articles of Association (M&A). The Executive emphasized that all actions taken regarding the registration process fall squarely within its legal authority.
Citing Article 19 of the M&A, the SLBA noted that the Executive is empowered to manage the business of the Association, except for matters expressly reserved for members in a General Meeting. Together with Articles 29 and 30, this provision grants the Executive broad authority to adopt administrative measures necessary for the effective running of the Association.
“The electronic registration exercise is an administrative measure within these powers,” the statement read, adding that the initiative does not amend the M&A, alter membership rights, or introduce new qualifications.
The SLBA explained that the electronic registration system was introduced to strengthen transparency and credibility in the electoral process. According to the Executive, the system is designed to:
- Verify members’ eligibility under Article 32,
- Establish an accurate register of voters,
- Reduce duplication and impersonation, and
- Ensure secure voting credentials for each member.
“This mechanism facilitates compliance with the M&A; it does not impose additional conditions for participation,” the Executive stressed.
While acknowledging the importance of transparency, the SLBA argued that revealing technical security details could compromise the integrity of the elections. Instead, it assured members that eligibility requirements remain clear, objective, and verifiable, with the electronic system providing an auditable trail to safeguard the process.
Responding directly to claims that electronic registration creates an extra qualification for participation, the Executive dismissed the suggestion as “misconceived.” It reiterated that eligibility is determined solely by Article 32 of the M&A, and registration merely serves to confirm compliance with those existing provisions.
Reaffirming its commitment to good governance and transparency, the SLBA urged all eligible members to complete the registration process. “The electronic registration exercise is a lawful administrative measure undertaken to ensure that the 2026 AGM and elections are conducted in a fair, efficient, secure, and credible manner,” the Executive concluded.
