L-R: Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah, Joy Precious Bayoh, Margaret Davies, Wara Serry-Kamal, and Claude Bami Davies.In a significant development for Sierra Leone’s legal profession, a group of lawyers officially launched “The Lawyers’ Society” in Freetown, breaking away from the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA).
This new organisation was officially launched by prominent legal figures Yada Williams, Fatmata Sorie, and Durcil Taylor, who expressed their dissatisfaction with the recent SLBA elections held in May, which they deemed a “disgrace” to the integrity of the legal field. During the launch, Mr Williams expressed the group’s frustrations, saying, “On May 18, 2024, we lost the Sierra Leone Bar Association to politics.”It was broad daylight robbery, and those who orchestrated that did it with impunity.”
Yada Williams, Fatmata Sorie, and Durcil TaylorHe emphasised the need for The Lawyers’ Society to remain free from political influence, asserting, “Those who hold public office should not hold any executive position in this organisation.” Fatmata Sorie echoed Williams’ sentiments, reflecting on the divisive events that transpired in Kenema, which she believes have marred the reputation of the legal profession.
“What we saw in Kenema was divisive, and I hope the Lawyers’ Society bridges that gap,” she remarked. Durcil Taylor further reinforced the organisation’s commitment to lawful practices, urging members to act as “police officers of the law.” He stressed the importance of aligning the society’s operations with its foundational purpose, ensuring it remains a protective and unifying force for all lawyers in Sierra Leone.
The Interim Executive of “The Lawyers’ Society” are:- President: Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah, Vice President: Wara Serry-Kamal, Secretary-General: Margaret Davies, Treasurer: Joy Precious Bayoh and Public Relations Officer: Claude Bami Davies.
