Saturday, May 18th, the Sierra Leone Bar Association’s annual General meeting and elections took an unexpectedly violent turn, sparking outrage and in turn raising concerns over the state of democracy within the association.
The Annual General Meeting and elections took an unexpected turn as violence marred the elections, overshadowing the theme of “unconstitutional change of government and its threats to democracy”. A bare contrast with the chaotic scenes that unfolded during the elections, for a well-respected and admirable profession.
Videos and reports from the scene indicate that the elections were marred by chaos, and the destruction of ballot papers, which led to police firing teargas to restore order.
There were also allegations of disenfranchisement that surfaced, with some lawyers claiming they were unable to cast their votes because they were either prevented from entering the hall or a change in the agenda-changing the time for the elections.
According to many Sierra Leoneans, this incident laid bare a clear disconnect between the values embraced by the legal profession and the actions witnessed during the election process. Lawyers, as upholders of justice and the rule of law, are expected to set an example for society in conducting their affairs peacefully and in adherence to due process. They commented.
Some senior lawyers and other delegates are now calling for a rerun of the election, to them, this will underscore the importance of maintaining integrity, transparency, and respect for democratic principles within their association.
Many believe that as pillars of justice, lawyers bear a significant responsibility to uphold these values not only in their professional practice but also in their internal governance processes.
To many, this event serves as a sobering reminder of the need for all members of society, especially those in positions of influence, to exemplify the virtues they seek to defend.
By: Sulaiman Stom Koroma
