During Its 2nd Annual General Meeting… Lawyers’ Society Advocates For Stronger Media-Legal Alliance
By JKM
The Lawyers’ Society has used its second Annual General Meeting (AGM) as a platform to advocate for sweeping institutional reforms, enhanced accountability, and closer collaboration between the legal profession and the media.
Formed two years ago in the wake of divisions within the Sierra Leone Bar Association, the Society reaffirmed its commitment to defending the rule of law and promoting ethical governance. Members at the AGM emphasized their resolve to uphold democratic values and hold public officeholders accountable.
Delivering the keynote address, Abdul M. Fatorma, Executive Director of the Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI), stressed that strengthening institutional independence is critical to sustaining democracy. He urged stakeholders to move beyond surface-level discussions and interrogate how institutions function and deliver services.
“The discussion must focus on asking the necessary questions about how services are provided and whether institutions are functioning in the best interest of the people,” Fatorma said, noting that transparency, efficiency, and public trust are rooted in effective service delivery systems.
He further argued that reform should go beyond policy frameworks to include structural and organizational transformation. According to him, sustainable progress depends on institutionalizing best practices and ensuring that governance systems are resilient and free from undue influence.
President of the Lawyers’ Society, Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah, described the organization as a permanent institution dedicated to strengthening democracy and the rule of law. Reflecting on its formation, he said the Society emerged from a defining moment within the legal profession during a meeting in Kenema, where differing views on the state of democracy led to the creation of a complementary legal body.
“The Lawyers’ Society is not a temporary movement expected to fade away. It is an institution we have built and are committed to nurturing across generations,” Marrah stated.
He acknowledged that the Society has faced criticism since its inception, but maintained that it has remained resilient, driven by the support of its members and stakeholders. He reiterated the organization’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance.
Marrah also highlighted the AGM theme, “Institutional Reforms as Pillars of Democracy,” describing it as both timely and reflective of national realities. He said the forum serves as a space for meaningful dialogue on strengthening democratic institutions.
Also speaking at the event, Alhaji M. Kamara, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), underscored the vital role of the media in promoting accountability and shaping national discourse.
Kamara described journalists as watchdogs and defenders of truth, emphasizing that their work is essential to safeguarding democratic values. He highlighted the importance of freedom of association and urged professional bodies to continually reflect on their responsibilities to national development.
He further called for stronger collaboration between the media and legal institutions, including the Sierra Leone Bar Association, noting that such partnerships are key to promoting transparency and effective governance.
“Our position has always been clear and peaceful,” Kamara said, advocating for constructive engagement and mutual respect among stakeholders.
The AGM concluded with renewed calls for a holistic approach to reform—one that combines policy improvements with practical governance changes—aimed at strengthening democratic institutions and improving the lives of Sierra Leoneans.
