The Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), under the leadership of its President, Tuma Adama Jabbi Esq., on Monday, October 6, 2025, held a high-level engagement with the Honourable Chief Justice, His Lordship Komba Kamanda, to explore ways of strengthening collaboration between the Bar and the Bench while reinforcing ethical standards in the legal profession.
During the meeting, held in Freetown, Chief Justice Komba Kamanda emphasized that the credibility of the Judiciary depends on a strong, ethical and professional Bar. He highlighted key reforms already undertaken within the Judiciary and appealed for the Association’s active support to ensure their effective implementation.
He commended the SLBA for its active participation in the recent Assize Service, which officially opened the 2025/2026 Judicial Year, describing the turnout as “impressive” and a sign of the Bar’s commitment to judicial processes.
Addressing matters of professional conduct, the Chief Justice raised concerns about courtroom decorum, particularly the dress code of some legal practitioners. He noted with dismay reports of lawyers appearing in court dressed in miniskirts, brown shoes, slippers and other inappropriate attire that contravenes the Legal Practitioners’ Code of Conduct. To curb this, he directed Judges not to entertain any lawyer who appears before them improperly dressed, urging the SLBA to reinforce professional discipline among its members.
Chief Justice Komba Kamanda concluded by reaffirming his commitment to continued dialogue with the Bar, stressing that sustained collaboration would not only enhance the rule of law but also strengthen public trust and confidence in the justice system.
Responding on behalf of the Bar, SLBA President, Tuma Adama Jabbi, thanked the Chief Justice for his openness and willingness to work collaboratively. She pledged the Association’s full support in maintaining the highest ethical and professional standards, assuring that the SLBA remains committed to safeguarding the integrity of Sierra Leone’s legal profession.
