Over 460 legal professionals from across the country have gathered in Freetown for the first-ever Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Lawyers Society of Sierra Leone (LSSL).
The two-day event, which commenced on February 20 and concludes today, February 21, 2025, is taking place at T-Hall, Big Water, Peninsula.
The AGM marks a pivotal moment for the newly established legal body, providing an opportunity for members to elect their leadership and outline a vision for the future of the legal profession in Sierra Leone.
Themed “The Role of Lawyers in Democratic Governance,” the meeting underscores the responsibility of legal practitioners in strengthening democracy, promoting justice, and ensuring accountability in governance.
Among the distinguished speakers at the event are representatives from the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), the Mayor of Freetown, and other prominent legal figures.
Notably, Faith M.A. Odhiambo, President of the Kenya Law Society, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the need for regional collaboration to fortify legal institutions and governance structures.
Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, in her remarks, acknowledged the critical role of lawyers in upholding the rule of law. “I commend them for their dedication to justice and expect them to stand firm as defenders of democracy,” she stated.
Since its inception on November 1, 2024, the LSSL has aimed to provide an alternative platform for legal practitioners, following concerns over governance within legal circles.
Its formation was largely influenced by dissatisfaction with alleged irregularities during the Sierra Leone Bar Association’s AGM in May 2024, which fueled discussions on the need for an independent body committed to fairness, transparency, and ethical standards.
As deliberations continue, participants are expected to address pressing legal issues, propose strategies for enhancing legal education and professional ethics, and explore ways to strengthen the legal framework for democratic governance in Sierra Leone.
The enthusiastic participation of both seasoned and young lawyers signals a collective commitment to shaping a new era in the legal profession.
The AGM’s conclusion today is anticipated to set the foundation for a more accountable and progressive legal system in Sierra Leone.
