By Andrew Chokpeleh
Freetown, 8th April 2026 — The Lawyers’ Society has used its second Annual General Meeting (AGM) to call for sweeping institutional reforms, stronger accountability, and deeper collaboration between the legal profession and the media in Sierra Leone.
Formed two years ago in the wake of divisions within the Sierra Leone Bar Association, the Lawyers’ Society has positioned itself as a guardian of the rule of law and ethical conduct. At the AGM, members reaffirmed their commitment to defending democratic values and holding public officeholders accountable.
The Executive Director of the Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI), Abdul M. Fatorma, who was the keynote speaker, underscored the importance of strengthening institutional independence and advancing reforms as critical pillars for supporting a free and democratic society in Sierra Leone.
Fatorma emphasized that national conversations must go beyond surface-level concerns and address fundamental questions about how services are delivered across institutions. He noted that examining service delivery systems is essential in ensuring transparency, efficiency, and public trust. “The discussion must focus on asking the necessary questions about how services are provided and whether institutions are functioning in the best interest of the people,” Fatorma stated. He further highlighted that the pursuit of a free society is closely tied to the independence of national institutions, stressing that reform efforts should aim at building systems that are resilient, accountable, and free from undue influence.
According to him, reform and institutionalization should not be limited to social justice policies alone but must also encompass structural and organizational practices. He argued that without transforming how institutions operate internally, sustainable progress would remain elusive.
“Reform is not only about policy changes; it is about institutionalizing best practices and ensuring that organizations function effectively and responsibly,” he added.
Fatorma concluded by calling for a holistic approach to reform, one that integrates policy improvements with practical changes in governance and administration, stating that such efforts are key to fostering national development and strengthening democratic values in Sierra Leone.
The President of the Lawyers’ Society, Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah, underscored the importance of institutional reform and the protection of the rule of law as essential pillars for sustaining democracy in Sierra Leone.
Speaking at the second Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Lawyers’ Society, Marrah reflected on the formation of the institution, noting that it was established two years ago by legal professionals committed to defending and promoting the rule of law.
Providing a background to the Society’s emergence, he explained that the idea was conceived during a meeting in Kenema, where lawyers gathered amid differing perspectives about the state of democracy in the country. According to him, while opinions varied, the moment ultimately served as a defining point for the legal profession, leading to the creation of a new institution to complement existing legal bodies.
Marrah acknowledged that since its establishment, the Lawyers’ Society has faced criticism and skepticism, with some questioning whether it was merely a reactionary or short-lived movement. However, he firmly rejected such assertions, describing the Society as a lasting institution dedicated to upholding democratic values.
“The Lawyers’ Society is not a temporary movement expected to fade away. It is an institution we have built and are committed to nurturing across generations,” he stated.
He further noted that despite numerous challenges, the Society has remained resilient, crediting its progress to the support of members and key stakeholders who continue to advocate for justice and accountability.
Marrah emphasized that the organization is committed to holding public officeholders accountable and ensuring that governance is anchored on the principles of transparency and the rule of law.
Highlighting the theme of this year’s AGM, “Institutional Reforms as Pillars of Democracy,” he described it as timely and reflective of both national realities and professional concerns within the legal sector. He added that the gathering provides a platform for meaningful dialogue on reform efforts necessary to strengthen democratic institutions.
The Lawyers’ Society President concluded by encouraging active participation from attendees, noting that the meeting would feature contributions from a guest speaker and open discussions aimed at advancing reform and good governance in Sierra Leone.
The President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, Alhaji M. Kamara, emphasized the critical role of journalists in shaping national discourse, promoting accountability, and safeguarding democratic values.
Speaking on the role of the media in society, Kamara noted that journalists are uniquely positioned to witness and report on the realities within communities, institutions, and the broader national landscape. He described media professionals as both watchdogs and defenders of truth, justice, and accountability, stressing that while their roles may be distinct, their mission remains unified.
He further highlighted the importance of freedom of association as a constitutional right, noting that such freedoms are fundamental to strengthening democratic governance. According to him, professional bodies, including the media and the legal community, must continuously reflect on their responsibilities to ensure they contribute meaningfully to national development.
Kamara also underscored that the legal profession has a duty not only to itself but to the justice system and the wider democratic framework. He maintained that a strong, independent, and fair legal system is essential for national stability, adding that unity within professional spaces should not come at the expense of diverse opinions and open dialogue. “Our position has always been clear and peaceful,” he stated, emphasizing the need for constructive engagement and mutual respect among stakeholders within the legal and media sectors.
The SLAJ President further called for sustained collaboration between the media and legal institutions, including the Sierra Leone Bar Association and other relevant bodies. He noted that such partnerships are vital in promoting transparency, strengthening accountability, and advocating for effective policy formulation and implementation.
Kamara concluded by expressing optimism about the potential benefits of stronger media-legal cooperation, stating that such collaboration would ultimately have a positive impact on the lives of Sierra Leoneans.
