By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
The new Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), under the leadership of Madam Tuma Adama Gento Kamara (nee Jabbi, has disclosed that it will be holding an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) scheduled for Tuesday, July 16, 2024. It further stated that the meeting will be convened promptly at 2:30 p.m. at Cathedral House, No.3 Gloucester Street in Freetown maintaining that it is restricted to only fully paid-up members who have settled their Annual Subscription fees.
Madam Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara recently reiterated her dedication to advancing the Sierra Leone Bar Association and ensuring the rule of law and democracy are upheld in the country.
She expressed her gratitude to the lawyers who supported her based on her manifesto, outlining her vision for improving the Association’s standards. She highlighted plans for educational initiatives such as scholarships and internship programs, as well as a new Secretariat building and pension provisions for retired lawyers.
The SLBA President also shared her vision for the Sierra Leone Bar Association, aiming to “raise the bar” by enhancing standards, empowering members, and addressing welfare issues. She announced plans to secure land and construct the first-ever Sierra Leone Bar Association Secretariat.
Addressing recent controversies, Madam Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara condemned the actions of Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah and Wara Serry-Kamal for convening an Extraordinary General Meeting, calling it illegal and disruptive. She urged them to adhere to the law and cease their actions immediately.
The Bar Association President mentioned her willingness to engage dissatisfied members and explore mediation opportunities with the Acting Chief Justice and other legal profession key players to resolve ongoing disputes.
Madam Tuma Adama Gento Kamara called for swift action by the Attorney General’s office and Parliament to address the Tribunal Report, underscoring the importance of preserving the rule of law.
It could be recalled that, the Ministry of Information and Civic Education during its weekly press conference on Tuesday, July 9, 2024,t featured notable speakers, including the President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association, Madam Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara (Nee Jabbi). The press conference addressed various significant issues, including the findings and recommendations of the Tribunal investigating Lara Taylor Pearce and her Deputy.
According to Madam Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara (Nee Jabbi) the Tribunal has concluded its investigations and handed over their report to the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone in accordance with the 1991 Constitution.
She noted a procedural issue stating that the Tribunal should have only investigated the Auditor General, leaving the Deputy Auditor General’s matter to the Audit Service Sierra Leone Board. Director of Public Prosecutions, Osman Kanu, clarified that the Deputy was investigated for periods when he acted as Auditor General.
Tuma Adama Gento Kamara ended up urging the Attorney General and the Ministry of Justice to expedite the necessary steps, emphasizing the principle of separation of powers and the need for each Government branch to perform its constitutional duties.
“That is the beauty of democracy and the rule of law,” she remarked, calling for a speedy resolution before Parliament goes on recess.
