Presidential aspirants of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah and Wara Serry-Kamal, have formally expressed significant reservations regarding the measures proposed by the General Legal Council in response to the recent events at the SLBA’s 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Kenema. In a letter addressed to the General Legal Council, Marrah and Serry-Kamal outlined their concerns and highlighted potential procedural and legal issues.

Key Concerns Highlighted:

1. Legality of the Investigative Committee’s Mandate:
   Marrah and Serry-Kamal questioned the establishment of an investigative committee to recommend disciplinary actions. They noted that the Legal Practitioners Act, 2000 assigns the responsibility of handling disciplinary matters to the Disciplinary Committee of the General Legal Council under Section 6(1) of the Act. They argued that creating a separate investigative body undermines the statutory role of the Disciplinary Committee and could lead to procedural irregularities. The letter stressed the importance of the Council adhering strictly to its legal mandates to maintain the rule of law and procedural integrity.
2. Conflict of Interest Concerns:
   The aspirants raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest within the investigative committee. They pointed out the inclusion of Ms. Kadija Zainab Bangura, due to her professional connection to Francis Ben Kaifala, the Anti-Corruption Commissioner, who may be investigated for his role in the events at the AGM. Additionally, they noted the inclusion of Musa Mewa Esq, citing his support for Ms. Tuma Adama Jabbie in the campaigns leading up to the AGM and his professional connection to her. Marrah and Serry-Kamal argued that these associations could compromise the impartiality and credibility of the committee’s findings. They urged the Council to address these conflicts of interest to preserve public trust in the investigative process.
3. Scope of Investigations:
   The aspirants emphasized the need for a thorough and comprehensive investigation that considers the broader context and underlying causes of the agitations witnessed at the AGM. They called for accountability for all involved, including those whose actions may have provoked the protests. Marrah and Serry-Kamal stressed that a holistic approach is necessary to ensure a fair and just resolution to the issues raised.

Statement from the Aspirants:
“We have reviewed the press statement of the General Legal Council dated 24th May 2024 regarding the unfortunate events at the Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Sierra Leone Bar Association on the 17th and 18th May 2024 in Kenema. While we share the Council’s concern over the purported misconduct observed, we must express significant reservations about the measures proposed in that statement,” the letter reads.

Marrah and Serry-Kamal concluded their letter by urging the General Legal Council to reconsider the proposed measures and ensure that any investigative body formed is beyond reproach. They emphasized the need for adherence to legal protocols and the importance of maintaining public trust in the investigative process. They also reiterated their commitment to upholding the principles of transparency, accountability, and best practices within the SLBA.