As preparations intensify for the 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) elections of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), legal practitioner Martina Baindu Egbenda has formally positioned herself as a leading contender for the presidency, unveiling a campaign anchored on unity, professionalism, and institutional reform.
With the central message “A United Bar,” Egbenda is calling for greater cohesion within the legal profession, stressing that the strength of the Bar lies in collective responsibility and shared purpose. Her campaign, which is gaining attention across the legal community, emphasizes inclusivity, accountability, and service as key pillars for transforming the association.
Speaking through her campaign message, Egbenda underscored the need for unity among lawyers across all levels of practice, noting that emerging challenges within the profession require a common voice in defence of the rule of law and professional integrity. She is advocating for stronger collaboration among senior, mid-career, and young lawyers, while also promoting equal opportunities for women in the legal field.
At the heart of her agenda is a commitment to improving the welfare of members of the Bar, strengthening professional development, and enhancing transparent governance structures within the association. She has outlined plans to expand mentorship programmes, support continuous legal education, and create more structured platforms for capacity building aimed at preparing lawyers for both national and international legal practice.
Egbenda also stresses the importance of safeguarding the dignity and public image of the profession, stating that a credible and respected Bar Association is essential to strengthening justice delivery and democratic governance in Sierra Leone.
Her campaign slogan, “Unite. Renew. Empower. Lead.” captures what she describes as a roadmap for rebuilding confidence in the SLBA through inclusive leadership and responsive administration.
The elections are expected to draw significant interest within the legal community as members of the Sierra Leone Bar Association prepare to choose a new executive team to steer the affairs of the association into a new term.
As the AGM 2026 approaches, Egbenda is urging lawyers nationwide to actively participate in the electoral process, describing it as a critical moment to shape the future direction of the Bar. Her message continues to resonate with many who are calling for renewed unity and strengthened institutional leadership within the profession.
If elected, she pledges to foster a more united and empowered Bar Association that stands firmly for justice, professional excellence, and the advancement of the rule of law in Sierra Leone.
