By Elkass Sannoh
The President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), Madam Eddinia Michaela Swallow Esq, Vice President of the Bar Association Mr. Abdul Karim Kamara Esq. and others were on the 11th January, 2021 sworn in as Notaries Public by His Lordship Chief Justice Babatunde Edwards at the Law Courts building, Siaka Stevens Street, Freetown.
The swearing ceremony was graced by the erudite Attorney General and the Minister of Justice, Anthony Y. Brewah, Deputy Minister of Justice Umaru N. Koroma and the newly elected International Criminal Court (ICC) Judge Justice Miatta Samba J. A, and many other dignitaries.
In addressing the newly sworn Notaries Public the Chief Justice said: “to be appointed to this height is an honor and achievement and much is required of you”. He also explained the role of a Notary Public: “specifically you will be required to do authentication, certification, attestation of signatures on instruments or authorities with respect to documents abroad”.
The Chief Justice said Notary Public should be given to people with high integrity. Therefore they are expected to be persons of such uprightness. He stated the appointment of the Notaries Public would reduce fraud as they would not append certification signature on any documents that they consider to be fake.
“I have no doubt that the people who I have appointed today are of high integrity and I expect much from you. Go and make the country proud,” said the Chief Justice.
In giving the vote of thanks on behalf of his colleague recipients and members of the Bar, Abdul Karim Kamara Esq. expressed appreciation and considered it as an honor to them.
“There are so many colleagues out there who have been looking forward to this opportunity, but it took wisdom. You were so methodical in your selection that amongst all other lawyers in the country you decided to choose us, for this we are deeply honored,” Kamara said.
Commenting on the appointment after the swearing-in ceremony, the Bar Association President, Eddinia Michaela Swallow Esq said: “Today, I joined my colleagues who have distinguished themselves in our profession. I am grateful to the Lord Chief Justice for the opportunity to serve as a Notary Public. For me, it is about public service and will endeavour to serve with honesty and integrity.”
