Freetown, 6th August , 2026 — As the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) holds its Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) today in Freetown, a strong call for unity and reform has emerged from its former Public Relations Officer, who resigned only days ago.
In a detailed statement, the former PRO urged members to seize the opportunity presented by the EGM to transform the SLBA into a more united, independent, and credible institution. The meeting is expected to select a caretaker body to manage the Association’s affairs until the next Annual General Meeting (AGM).
The proposals outlined by the former PRO include:
Inclusive caretaker body: Members drawn from diverse ranks and political orientations to lead for six months.
Workshops for dialogue: Open forums for lawyers to debate reforms and chart a stronger, united Bar.
Review of Memorandum & Articles: Updating governance documents to reflect modern democratic principles.
Clear electoral laws: Establishing an independent electoral management body to oversee transparent elections.
Digital modernization: Maintaining e‑registration, introducing e‑payment of dues, and adopting e‑voting.
Safeguarding independence: Rejecting government subventions, disqualifying partisan operatives and government officials from contesting executive positions.
Continuous legal training: Ensuring members remain updated on evolving legal standards.
The former PRO stressed that the SLBA must protect its independence by relying on member subscriptions and donor funding rather than government support. He cautioned against candidates paying annual dues or conference fees for colleagues, warning that such practices compromise integrity and fairness in elections.
He also emphasized that only lawyers with valid practicing certificates should qualify to vote or contest in SLBA elections, reinforcing accountability and professional standards.
With the EGM underway, the former PRO’s proposals have added momentum to calls for reform. Many within the legal fraternity see today’s meeting as a defining moment for the SLBA one that could determine whether the Association emerges stronger, more independent, and better positioned to serve as a credible voice in Sierra Leone’s democratic and governance landscape.
