The birth of the Lawyers’ Society marks a defining moment in Sierra Leone’s legal landscape. Emerging from adversity, this bold new association held its inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday, 20 February 2025, at T-Hall, Big Water, York, Freetown under the theme ‘The Role of Lawyers in Democratic Governance.’
A NEW DAWN FOR LEGAL INTEGRITY
Dedicated to upholding the rule of law, ensuring justice, and fostering professional excellence, the Lawyers’ Society was conceived as a beacon of integrity in the face of challenges. Hosting its first-ever AGM, the members gathered to reaffirm their commitment to ethical legal practice and the principles of democracy.
Vice President Wara Serry-Kamal, addressing the attendees, reflected on the journey that led to the formation of the Society. “From the ashes of Kenema, this association was born. I am proud to stand among lawyers who refused to compromise their integrity. Despite the labels and obstacles, we continue to fight for the good of Sierra Leone.”
Encouraging unity and resilience, she urged absent members to join the movement.
“Those here today have made the right choice. This event is filled with energy, purpose, and class. It is our first AGM, but certainly not our last.”
A CALL FOR ETHICAL LEADERSHIP
Chairing the event, Mohamed Pa Momoh Fofana Esq. emphasized the significance of Lawyers’ Society, describing it as an institution larger than the existing Bar Association. “The Bar Association remains in suspense until justice prevails. Integrity and commitment to national development are essential, for without laws, no nation can survive.”
Referencing the 1991 Constitution, Fofana decried corruption as a plague on Sierra Leone’s progress. “You cannot preach against corruption while indulging in it. We must practice what we advocate. We will not relent until the right path is restored.”
VOICES OF SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT
Freetown’s Mayor, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, lauded the Society’s courage in standing against injustice. “The Lawyers’ Society embodies the people’s right to freedom of expression and association. You must continue to challenge governance failures and be a strong alternative voice. The rule of law must always be defended.”
Adding to this, senior lawyer Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara (JFK) recalled the challenges faced by the Society’s founding members. “They tried to stop us in Kenema—we prevailed. They blocked us at Brookfields Hotel—we prevailed. We are the last ones standing.”
He reinforced the Society’s commitment to justice. “As lawyers, our duty is to uphold the law and stand with the people. Injustice will no longer be tolerated. Today marks a turning point in our history.”
A CALL FOR UNITY AMONG LEGAL PROFESSIONALS
President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, acknowledged the struggles that professionals face, including external pressures and divisions. “Despite these challenges, our commitment remains to democracy and the fundamental freedoms that sustain society.”
Nasralla urged reconciliation between the Lawyers’ Society and the Bar Association. “Free speech and justice must be protected. By working together, we can safeguard citizens’ rights, ensure justice, and promote transparency.”
LESSONS FROM ACROSS BORDERS
Delivering the keynote address, Faith M.A. Odhiambo, President of the Kenya Law Society, praised the establishment of the Lawyers’ Society in Sierra Leone. “The rule of law is democracy’s heartbeat. Once it falters, society suffers.”
She encouraged the Society to remain non-partisan and focus on electoral justice.
“Our role is not to take political sides but to ensure democratic fairness. Lawyers must stand at the forefront of legal reform and governance.”
Odhiambo also stressed the need for transparency and legal education. “Teach the law in simple terms so that citizens understand their rights. Your duty is not just to the courts but to the people.”
A FUTURE DEFINED BY INTEGRITY AND ACTION
The first day of the AGM concluded with a panel discussion on good governance, moderated by Campaign for Good Governance’s Marcela Samba-Sesay.
The event continues on Friday, 21 February, with discussions on the Society’s history, the presentation of its Constitution, nominations and elections of Executive members, and deliberations on future activities and resolutions.
A new era has begun, the lawyers vowed, and reiterated thst the Lawyers’ Society stands firm, ready to defend justice and lead the legal profession into a future built on integrity and democracy.
