SLBA Rejects Attorney General's Directives on AGM
The Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) has firmly rejected directives from Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay, concerning the postponement of its Annual General Meeting (AGM), asserting the independence of the Association's internal governance.
Background
On June 10, 2026, the SLBA, through its President Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara, responded to the Attorney General's letter that questioned the legality of the indefinite postponement of the AGM and raised concerns about the expiration of the Executive's mandate. The SLBA emphasized that the Attorney General lacks the legal authority to intervene in its affairs, highlighting the Association's autonomy as a professional body governed by its Articles of Association and the Companies Act.
Key Points of Contention
- Independence of the SLBA: The Association maintains that it operates independently of the executive arm of government and is not subject to directives from the Attorney General.
- Legal Authority: The SLBA argues that the Attorney General's intervention oversteps his constitutional and statutory powers, as the title 'Titular Head of the Bar' is ceremonial and does not confer supervisory authority over the Association.
- AGM Postponement: The SLBA cited logistical challenges beyond its control as the reason for postponing the AGM and stated that a new date would be communicated in due course.
Implications
This standoff underscores tensions between the SLBA and the government regarding the autonomy of professional bodies and the extent of governmental oversight. The outcome of this dispute may have broader implications for the independence of legal institutions in Sierra Leone.
Members of the legal community and observers are closely monitoring the situation, as it raises critical questions about governance, legal authority, and the balance of power between professional associations and the state.
