The Lawyers’ Society of Sierra Leone (LSSL) has elected its first-ever executive, marking a historic moment for the country’s legal profession. The elections took place during the inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM), held on February 20-21, 2025, at T-Hall, Big Water, Peninsula, where over 460 legal professionals gathered to shape the future of the newly established body.
Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah was elected as the first President of the Lawyers’ Society, with Wara Serry-Kamal assuming the role of Vice President.
In his acceptance speech, Marrah expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in him and his team, emphasizing their commitment to upholding the rule of law, combating bad governance, and fostering unity within the legal profession.
“We have come together not just to elect an executive but to revive a spirit of solidarity and professionalism. This election marks a new chapter where lawyers can stand as a united front in defending justice and democracy,” Marrah stated.
Other elected members of the executive include Margaret A.L. Davies as Secretary General, Edward Lassayo as Assistant Secretary General, Claude Bhamee Davies as Public Relations Officer (PRO), Joy Bayoh as Treasurer, and Charles Israel Williams as Organizing Secretary.
During the AGM, legal professionals from across the country gathered to pay tribute to their late colleagues, share memories, and discuss the future of the society. The event featured moments of reconciliation, heated debates, laughter, and collective decision-making—all hallmarks of a democratic and inclusive legal community.
The formation of this executive is expected to bolster the Lawyers’ Society’s advocacy efforts, promote legal excellence, and contribute to the strengthening of democratic institutions in Sierra Leone. With a leadership comprising experienced legal minds, the society is positioned to play a crucial role in upholding the rule of law, defending human rights, and ensuring accountability within the justice system.
Many in the legal community have welcomed the development, expressing optimism that the newly elected executive will work towards enhancing the legal profession’s integrity and independence.
Since its formation on November 1, 2024, the LSSL has positioned itself as an alternative platform for legal practitioners. The society emerged following concerns over governance within the legal community, particularly after alleged irregularities in the Sierra Leone Bar Association’s AGM in May 2024. This led to widespread discussions on the need for an independent legal body committed to fairness, transparency, and ethical standards.
As the newly elected executive assumes office, the legal fraternity anticipates a stronger advocacy for legal education, professional ethics, and judicial transparency. The overwhelming participation of both seasoned and young lawyers at the AGM signals a renewed commitment to reforming the legal profession and enhancing democratic governance in Sierra Leone.
